Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching these issues early before they become too much.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step to 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 lead to drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your upvc window repair near me and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash was double glazed window repairs near me-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should be buried within the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or using the putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with scrap wood.

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

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from age and use and the result could be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with minimal effort but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be due to a variety of factors that include an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and double glazed window repairs near me then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and a general inefficiency. Many times just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

To complete these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will help you to put the channel in the right location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or double glazed window repairs near me cords that secure it. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the upvc window repair near me to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might 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 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 onto the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood which can be removed so that you can view the inside of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be different in size from what is needed. After the new weight is installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed into and require removal. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They are not expensive and are easy to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights might be required to keep it in an open position.