Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early, before they get out of hand.

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 simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for 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 can cause drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the weather stripping from the corners, window repairs and then take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cure and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash to access this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut with very little effort, but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be due to various reasons such as a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a upvc window repairs near me are starting to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. Many times, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to locate replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to find a replacement that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you've got may not be the correct size. Once the new weight has been installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, Window Repairs you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its position when it is opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/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 fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not costly and easy to install if you purchase them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.