Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching these issues early on, before they become out of control.

The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can become damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin 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). 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 place it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double glazed window repairs-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also use a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if this solves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance, Upvc window repairs and you'll need to take out the sash to access this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't coated. This issue could be caused by various reasons that include the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the upvc window repairs without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to search for replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights which keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the small parting beads from their grooves. It is important to take your time, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to the components. The sash should move freely now, but it may need some lubrication in order 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 on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and fix it using Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.