Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching problems in the early stages, before they become out of control.

The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they may become damaged or degraded in time because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash has a double Glazed Window repairs-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty blade.

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

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed without effort, however, this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the specific upvc window repair near me sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

To make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the right position after you've finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and double glazed Window repairs attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and double Glazed window Repairs some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be the correct size. After the new weight has been installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you 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 screwed or nailed in and must be removed. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the small parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each piece. The sash should move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it in Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.