Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an internal frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the upvc window repairs's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and place it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with 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 protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from time and Window Repairs usage, and the result can be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the problem is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with minimal effort but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

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

It is essential to have the tools you need before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to position the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable sash by rope. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you've got may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb level. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise 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. They are typically attached by nails or screws and must be removed. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain, and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.