Window Sash Repairs

upvc window repairs near me sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. You can save future repair costs by catching these issues early before they become out of control.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and set it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

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 also use a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. After the putty has completely cure it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with very little effort, but this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of things, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to place the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your upvc window repairs near me sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable the sash with a rope. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose using a mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel which can be removed to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. You could use a hammer or chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

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

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They are not expensive and easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.