Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash Repair My Windows And Doors experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window 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 that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need to take off the window sash to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with very little effort, but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of factors, including insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure 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 need to unscrew 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 hinges that are sagging and general inefficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you to place the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the movable upvc window repairs sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the upvc window repairs without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might 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 to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood which can be removed to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been 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 might not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain connected to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed into and require removal. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel for removing 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 working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time. 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 attached to each component. It should now be possible to move the sash back and Repair My Windows And Doors forth without difficulty, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in the previous step. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.