Window Sash Repairs

window repair near me sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. If you catch these issues early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform several simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for many years. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Sash repair upvc window specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. 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 is cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least one day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's most likely the sash balance. It is necessary remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with minimal effort but this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of factors, including insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge 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 because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to put the channel in 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. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to find replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose with a mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double glazing windows repair-hung window, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. It is important to take your time as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely, however it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

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

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They're not costly and are easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.