Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early, before they get out of hand.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can become damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. 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.

The first step for repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (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 that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.

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

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry for at least 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 fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to take off the window sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured 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, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

In order to make these sash repairs, it's important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to put the channel in the right location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your upvc window repair sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable sash by a rope. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a new one that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important 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 a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window the chain or upvc window Repair cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb level. Over time, UPVC Window Repair these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window repair. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when it is opened.

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

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. It is important to take your time, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each component. You should be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

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

If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.