Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. By catching these problems early you will save money on future repairs.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window repair near me sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for a long time. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (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 you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash was double glazed window repairs-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

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

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage and the result could be a door or upvc window repair near me that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, however, this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and a general inefficiency. Many times just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

To make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the correct place when you are finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the upvc window repair without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then attach the string to the frame, but 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 attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position 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 require removal. You could employ a hammer and chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each piece. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication in order 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 at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.