Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues early on, before they get out of hand.

The sash is an interior window repair frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate in time because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash Window repair repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (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 that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should be buried inside the jamb lining. 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.

After the sash is cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use, and the result can be a window or upvc door repairs near me that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and Window Repair cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if this solves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly covered with. This can be due to a variety of factors, including an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (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 lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to put the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable sash by a rope. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and a mallet.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished 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 the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what you require. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes balanced 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 ensure it stays in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. You could employ a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely, however it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.