Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. If you catch these issues early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the interior double glazing repairs epsom frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and place it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double Glazing repairs epsom-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash is cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This can result in a door double glazing repairs Epsom or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel and then open it to see if that solves the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't coated. This issue can be caused by a number of factors, including the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To complete these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you to put the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable sash by rope. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you have may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double glazing repair Wisbech-hung window, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and must be removed. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small parting beads from their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be snipped out and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.