Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early on, before they become out of control.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or degraded over time because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double glazed window repairs-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide 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 a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the 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 a good idea to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if it solves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with very little effort, but this is difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This could be caused by various reasons that include an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix 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 remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

upvc windows repairs near me that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many cases just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly once more and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to locate replacements.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also need a new 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 keep the components together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights may be different in size from the one you need. After the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or repositioned. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It's important to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the Sash window Repair is in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on the components. The sash should be able move freely, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They're not expensive and simple to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it in an open position.