Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching these issues early before they get out of hand.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden upvc window repairs near me sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years when they are maintained properly. 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 back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for sash window repair longer than replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is 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 the brand of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using the putty blade.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the 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 scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop 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 knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if that resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's likely the sash balance. It is necessary remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of things, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using a rope. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

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

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash window Repair stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights may be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these chains may become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and must be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and are easy to install if you purchase them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.