Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an interior frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing sash windows. It's on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's 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 find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash was Double Glazed Window Repairs Near Me-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should be buried within the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then remove it manually or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. 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 from age and use, and the result can be a upvc window repair or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if it fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash connecting 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 are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure 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 loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will make it easier to place the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window repair sash. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the upvc window repair without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed with the use of a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be of the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these chains may become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when 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 will require to be removed or relocated. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be removed and it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on the components. The sash should move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it in an open position.