Window Sash Repairs

upvc window repair sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems in the early stages before they become out of control.

The sash is an internal frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will show you how to make several easy repairs to your 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 provided they are properly maintained. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists 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 repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass, 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, take it off and set it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length, 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 and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue continues it's likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to take off the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window repair are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to locate replacements.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallet.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and window repair the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a cord or chain 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. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before commencing 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 out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each component. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.