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How Window Sash Repairs Rose To Become The #1 Trend On Social Media
window repairs inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate as time passes because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.


Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should be buried within the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

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

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's most likely the sash balance. You'll need remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't covered with. This issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and remove 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 fitted with a nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to locate replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first because the weights you've got may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb level. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. It may be possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each piece. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Measure the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.

Read More: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/walthamcross-windowrepair/