Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. By catching these problems early you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate over time because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and 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 issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's on both the frame and sash Window repair. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close without effort, however, this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of factors, including lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and a general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To complete these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will help you get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older wood windows 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 them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallet.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible 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.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or repositioned. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel for sash window repair removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. It is important to take your time, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each piece. The sash should move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

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

It's best to leave the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your upvc window repair, you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.