Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems in the early stages before they become too much.

The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time if they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows with sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a table so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out with time and window repair use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if this solves the issue. If the issue persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly covered with. This issue could be caused by a number of factors, including lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against 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 has been screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt 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, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you require before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable window repair sash using a rope. They are counterbalancers, allowing the upvc window repairs near me to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with 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 you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be a different size than what you require. After the new weight is installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb level. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, 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 must be removed or relocated. You could use a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on the components. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and secure it in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Depending on the size and shape of your window repair, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.