Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for window sash repairs mold, mildew, and damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems in the early stages, before they become too much.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore 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 primary issue to take care of when fixing upvc windows repairs that have sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. Once it's fully cured and dried, window sash repairs apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then open it to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with minimal effort however, this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (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 screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew 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 inefficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require an additional 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 windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood which can be removed 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 remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes level within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

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

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the tiny parting beads from their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on each component. The sash should move freely now, but it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Measure the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain, and then fix it using the previous step. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it open.