Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching the issues early on before they get out of hand.

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for years. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and Upvc width to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash was double glazed window repairs near me-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it by hand or uPVC using a putty blade.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it solves the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be due to various reasons, including a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window repair are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In many cases just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and store it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult 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 a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose using a mallet.

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights could be a different size than what you require. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or Upvc cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time, these chains can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or repositioned. It is possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can 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. It is important to take your time as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in Step 6 above. 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 old counterbalance system, it's best 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. Depending on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.