Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early before they become too much.

The sash is an interior frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer 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. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty blade.

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

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried, 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 supports window repair, click for more info, sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if it solves the issue. If the problem persists, it is most likely the sash balance. It is necessary to remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't covered with. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, window Repair can be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to position the channel in the correct place when you are finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done via a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. First, weigh the sash because the weights you have may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be removed, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around freely, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and secure it in the step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. 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. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.