Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. If you catch these issues early you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood upvc Window repairs sashes add an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for a long time. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, so you can find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cure and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if it resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely the sash balance. You will need remove the window sash to access the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't covered with. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors such as an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in 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 a general inefficiency. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To complete these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to place the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to find a new one that fits correctly. 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 old wood windows. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallet.

After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a chain or upvc window repairs cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb level. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable can 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. They are typically installed by screws or nails and must 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 before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. It's important to take your time as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it might 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 at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or upvc window repairs nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have a kit that replaces 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'll be simple to install once you have the sash open. Based on the size of your upvc window repairs, one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.