Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues early on, before they get out of hand.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded as time passes due to exposure to the elements and window Repair near me wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. Start by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After it has fully 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 supports Window repair Near me sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely the sash balance. You'll need to take off the window sash to reach this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't coated. This issue can be due to a variety of factors that include a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

To make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your upvc window repair near me sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or Window repair near me disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to find replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished 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 inner workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be a different size than the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these chains can get damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and require removal. You could use a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads from their grooves. It is important to be patient as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to each component. You should be able to move the sash around freely, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

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

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.