Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash upvc repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

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

Then, window Doctor remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or using the putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers 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 stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This 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 due to age and use and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash to access this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This can be due to various reasons such as the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window doctor (envtox.snu.Ac.kr). If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In many cases just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and window doctor help homeowners save money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A sash weight 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 new piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It may be possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each component. The sash should move freely, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Determine the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.