Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching problems in the early stages, before they get out of hand.

The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do a variety of 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 provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and place it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then remove it manually or using a putty knife.

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

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top 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 may wear out over time and with use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if this solves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. You will need remove the window sash to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with minimal effort but this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This problem could be caused by many factors such as an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

To complete these sash repairs it is important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the movable upvc window repair near me sash. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. This is usually done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of Double Glazed window repairs near me-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the upvc window repairs near me. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and require removal. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each component. The sash should move freely, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then fix it using the previous step. You can use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.