Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early before they get out of hand.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can be damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, you can 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 take off the weights and their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash is cleared, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and let it dry for at least one day. After the putty has completely cure it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to 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 coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors such as an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from 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 next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many cases just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

To make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will make it easier to position the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your upvc window repairs sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights may be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight has been installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach 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 connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced within the jamb. 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 ensure it stays 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 need to be removed. You might be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It is important to take your time as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each component. The sash should move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and then fix it using the step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws 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. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.