upvc window repairs Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching these issues early on before they become out of control.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can 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. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty knife.

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

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if that fixes the issue. If the issue persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need remove the window sash to reach this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly covered with. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and an overall inefficiency. In many instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. 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 window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to find replacements.

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

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights could be different in size from the one you need. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the Window Repair. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and must be removed or repositioned. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each piece. The sash should move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

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

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights 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. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.