Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for a long time. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair upvc window specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step to repair timber windows sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, Window Sash Repairs so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty knife.

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

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cured 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 susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use, and the result can be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut with minimal effort but this is a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve 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 have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to position the channel in the right place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, but 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 through the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb level. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It is possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the small partsing beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each piece. The sash should move freely now, but it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not costly and easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.