Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. By catching these problems early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can be damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (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 find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or using the putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. 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 modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to access this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut with very little effort, but this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a number of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In many cases just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools needed before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the beads for sash window repair parting cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and put it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the upvc window repairs without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to find replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back It is therefore important to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a new 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. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood which can be removed so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. First, weigh the sash because the weights you've got may not be the correct size. Once the new weight has been installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string for future adjustments.

sash window repair Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain connected to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and sash window repair then take out the wood pegs attached to the components. The sash should be able move freely now, but it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll 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.