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Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an inside frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and place it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with the putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. After the putty has completely cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening the sash, repairmywindowsanddoors spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with very little effort, however, this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be due to a variety of factors that include an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you need before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and Repairmywindowsanddoors equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and store it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window repairs Bromley sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to search for replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, repairmywindowsanddoors so you will want to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose using a mallet.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood which can be removed so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be the correct size. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double glazing Dover-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes level in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and must be removed or relocated. It may be possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best 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 pull the small parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out and it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely now, but it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Determine the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.