window repairs Clacton-On-Sea Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. If you catch these issues early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or degraded as time passes because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, window repairs Clacton-on-Sea take it off and set it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash is cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide 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 scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing 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 and then open it to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue continues it's most likely the sash balance. You'll need to take off the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with minimal effort however, this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors such as an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you to position the channel in the right position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood which can be removed to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have might not be of the right size. 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 your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double glazing repairs Uxbridge-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time, these chains can get damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in position when it is opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed into and must be removed. You could use a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out and it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each component. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

Measure the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it using the previous step. 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 is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.