Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or degrade in time due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition 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. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by finding your Window repair brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window repair trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of 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 the compound with your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least one day. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and 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 and repairing this hardware is often 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 issue. If the issue continues it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, upvc window repair sashes must move open and shut without effort, however, this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be due to various reasons that include an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window repair are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Many times just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools needed before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallets.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner 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. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights may be different sizes than what you require. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then attach the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb level. Over time, these chains can get damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold 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 nailed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. It may be possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be removed and it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on the components. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.