Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they can become damaged or degraded over time because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, 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 also need to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash is cleared, you can install parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes 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 parting stops and trimming them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports upvc window repairs near me sashes is prone to wearing out from age and use, and the result can be a window or door that won't open or sash window repair close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if that fixes the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of things, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and remove it. If the Sash Window Repair is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need 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, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

To make these repairs to sash it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to position the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable window sash using a rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the upvc window repairs near me to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to find replacements.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is usually done via an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. First, weigh the sash because the weights you've got may not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb level. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in 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 in and must be removed. It is possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, though it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in the previous step. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights might be required to keep it open.