Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an internal frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing windows with sash. It's on both the frame and sash. If it's loose or upvc window repair near me worn out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. 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). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stops and cutting 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 knife, and let it dry at least one day. After the putty has completely cured and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use, and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's important to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, upvc Window repair near Me sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

To make these sash repairs, it's important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to place the channel in the right location after you've completed. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your upvc window repair near me sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using a rope. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover 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 sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or 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 a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After 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. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or relocated. It is possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads from their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out and it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on the components. You should be able to move the sash around freely, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails 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 old counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.