Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an inside frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your upvc window repairs and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width to find new weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then remove it manually or using a putty knife.

When the sash is clean and clean, you can put in the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if this solves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly covered with. This problem can be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and general lack of energy efficiency. Many times, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. 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 ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using a rope. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallets.

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

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights could be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In most old double glazed window repairs-hung window, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb level. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down 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 need to be removed. You might be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the small parting beads from their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to the components. You should be able to move the sash around freely, although it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and window repair the pulley at the top of the jamb. 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's best to leave the original weights if you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window Repair two or three sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.