window Doctor Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded as time passes due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take it off and set it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash has been double glazing-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should be buried within the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.

When the sash is clean and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two 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 scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once the putty has fully dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if that solves the issue. If the problem persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by many factors such as an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In many cases just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the correct place when you are finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Heat gun with nozzle shield 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

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable the sash with rope. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Window Doctor Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes 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 part loose using mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

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. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights could be a different size than the one you need. After the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but only 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 cord or chain is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or repositioned. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. It is essential to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights might be required to keep it open.