Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an internal frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform several simple upvc repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, repairer they can be damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to elements and repairer wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and sash. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife 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 install parting stops. These are long pieces that separate 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 then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out over time and use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the problem is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This problem can be due to a variety of factors such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and repairer decrease the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable sash by rope. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back It is therefore important to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and access the pockets for weights. This is usually done through tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.