Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching problems early, before they become too much.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width, Window Repairs so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh 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 thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable window sash using a rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to find 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 a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is crucial to take out 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 using a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You could use a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After the access panel has been 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. They are usually wedged in or nailed, window repairs but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Depending on the size and shape of your upvc window repairs near me you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.