Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be regularly checked for 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 up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they can be damaged or degrade over time because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, you can remove 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 glazed Window repairs near me-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from age and use, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's good to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly coated. This can be due to a variety of factors such as the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you need before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable sash by a rope. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to find replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back It is therefore important to find a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose with a mallet.

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you have may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and must be removed. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely now, but it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and secure it in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you don't have 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 cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash opened. Based on the size and shape of your upvc window repair near me, you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.