Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an inside frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. However, they can become damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great longer 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. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch upvc window repairs trim from the lumberyard. However, sash window repair you could substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. Once the putty has fully dried and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the problem is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window repair near sashes must be able to open and close without effort, but this is difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be due to many factors, including a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the Sash Window Repair to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. Many times just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

To make these sash repairs it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease the energy cost. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be cut off so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be different sizes than what is needed. After the new weight has been installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, Sash window Repair you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. It is important to take your time because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on the components. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, though it may require oil if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in Step 6 above. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.