Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an inside frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time if they are properly maintained. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back 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 can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue continues it's most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need remove the window sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed without effort, however, this can be difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This can be due to a variety of factors such as an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

To complete these sash repairs, it's important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that hold 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. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to find replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallet.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be ripped off so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, Upvc Window repair you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double glazed window repairs near me-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb level. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move 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. These are usually installed by screws or nails and must be removed or moved. You could use a hammer and chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the tiny parting beads from their grooves. It is important to be patient, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

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

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. They're not costly and simple to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window one or two sash weights could be needed to keep it open.