window repair near me Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and can last many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can become damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace 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 could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After the putty has completely cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This problem can be due to various reasons, including a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable window sash using a rope. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and window repairs mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have might not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. It is important to take your time because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and window repairs pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each component. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

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

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.