Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching these issues early on before they get out of hand.

The sash is an inside frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform several simple upvc repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and sash. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping from the corners. Then, take it off by hand or with a putty knife.

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

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length after which, 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. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a window or door that won't open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then open it to see if it resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need to remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This issue can be due to various reasons, including the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a Window Doctor begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window replacement near me. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable window sash using a rope. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to locate replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, window Doctor as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes 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 part loose using mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to 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, but they can be removed 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. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and screws or window Doctor nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not costly and simple to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.