Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early, before they become out of control.

The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to the elements and wear and wear and Sash Window Repair tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and sash. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find new weather stripping that matches.

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

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

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut without effort, however, this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of things, such as insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash Window repair (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 or close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy costs.

In order to make these sash repairs it is essential to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and store it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to locate a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first 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 with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose using a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to let you see the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb level. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed into and require removal. It is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. It is important to take your time, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each piece. The sash should move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord, and then fix it using the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the size of your upvc window repairs, two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.