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Your Family Will Be Grateful For Having This Window Sash Repairs
Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. By catching these problems early, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an inside frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for years. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying window repairs near me and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take it off and set it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cured and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash to access this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with very little effort, but this is difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem could be caused by many factors, including a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and then hit 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 was screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to find replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near 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 has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be a different size than what you require. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. 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 will keep it in its position when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and require removal. It may be possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on the components. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in the previous step. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws 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 weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.

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