Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching problems early, before they become too much.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can be damaged or degrade over time because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start 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). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry at least one day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.

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 upvc door repairs near me or window that won't open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel and then open it to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need to remove the window sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed without 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 could be caused by many factors that include an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

To make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and store it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable sash by a rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallet.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done through tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped 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 do this, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what you require. Once the new weight is installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes level within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and must be removed. It may be possible to remove them with 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 begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. It's important to take your time, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to the components. You should now be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then fix it using the step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.