Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues in the early stages, before they become out of control.

The sash is an inside frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear and Window Repairs tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double glazed window repairs-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to use the 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 trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry for at least one day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second 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 is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary to take off the upvc window repair sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut without effort, however, this can be an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, Window Repairs such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and 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). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. Many times, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

To complete these repairs to sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to find replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require 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 windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb level. Over time, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move 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 installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or repositioned. You could use a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before commencing 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 small partsing beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.