Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early on before they get out of hand.

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should be buried inside the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.

When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting 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. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly 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 hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your upvc window repair sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century utilized 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 mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place 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 moved. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed, window repairs but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, Window Repairs pry out the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each component. The sash should move freely, however it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord, and then fix it using the step 6 above. You can use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.