Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden upvc window repair 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. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate over time due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (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 replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with the putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them 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 parting stops and cutting 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 and let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cured it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and Window repairs repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if that solves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be due to a variety of factors such as an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on the upvc window repair near me begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly again and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you to put the channel in the correct place when you are finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and place it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to locate replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. 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 to the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done through tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be cut off to let you see the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights may be different sizes than what is needed. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb level. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its position when it is opened.

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

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. It is important to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to the components. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, however 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 balancing weights in place. They're not costly and are easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.