Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early before they become out of control.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood upvc window repair sashes provide an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, and then take it off by hand or with a putty knife.

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

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length, Window Repair apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the problem. If the problem persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to remove the window repair sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with minimal effort but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To complete these repairs to sash it is important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable sash by a rope. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to locate replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallets.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and require removal. You could employ a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be removed and it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it may require lubrication 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 at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.