Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an inside frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform several simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood upvc window repair sashes add an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for a long time. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and Sash window repair. If it's damaged or sash window repair worn out, it can cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and place it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty knife.

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

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry for at least one day. After the putty has completely cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to access this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, but this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and then hit 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 was fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and a general inefficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to put the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable window sash using rope. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once 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. First, weigh the sash because the weights you have might not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for sash window Repair future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and require removal. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the small parting beads from their grooves. It is important to be patient because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each component. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in the previous step. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.