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 interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they can be damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should be buried in the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, and then remove it manually or using a putty knife.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. They 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 can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the stopper 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 tool, and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn 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 fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to access the hardware.

Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a variety of things, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is fixed to 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 particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, window repairs and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable sash by a rope. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose using a mallet.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be cut off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the small parting beads from their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and fix it using the step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your upvc window repairs near me, you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.