upvc window repair Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, 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 and set it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers the 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 stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully cured, you can 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 may wear out over time and use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if it fixes the problem. If the issue persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need to take off the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This could be caused by various reasons such as a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will help you get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash window Repair 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 equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed with the use of a pin punch and Sash Window Repair hammer. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood 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 remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be the right size. After the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced within the jamb. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or relocated. It is possible to remove them with 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 narrow parting beads out of their grooves. It's important to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.