Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and window repairs mold. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early on, before they get out of hand.

The sash is an interior frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will show you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and set it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners, and then remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length, window repairs apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if this fixes the problem. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly glazed. This issue could be caused by many factors that include the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame 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 lack of energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to place the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done via tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you have might not be the right size. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the upvc window repair near me. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and must be removed. It may be possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It is important to take your time, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and then fix it using the previous step. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They are not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.