upvc window repairs Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. By catching these problems early, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an interior frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start 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). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash was double glazed window repairs-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or with the putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once the putty has fully cured it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use, misted and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed 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 grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly covered with. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address 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 is fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and an overall inefficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you get the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to find replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove 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 which can be removed so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different in size from what you require. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed 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 that helps keep the sashes level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise 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. They are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. You could use a hammer and chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and misted tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each component. You should be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it open.