Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues in the early stages before they become out of control.

The sash is an inside frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate in time because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

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 likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with very little effort, but this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of factors, including the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for a particular upvc window repairs sash.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly once more and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools needed before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed 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 tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose with a mallet.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you have might not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, Glazing you can nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or moved. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each piece. The sash should move freely now, but it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

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

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best 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 have the sash opened. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.