Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an interior frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or degraded as time passes due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double glazing repair-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window replacement near me (More hints) trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least a day. 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 is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with minimal effort but this is difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly again and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the right location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. 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 are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose using a mallet.

After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight is installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords can get damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its position when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads from their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around freely, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and simple to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.