Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows 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 an internal frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they may become damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and 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 corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, 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-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window repair trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out over time and use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you to position the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable window sash using a rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to find replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to find a replacement that is suitable for the. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be cut off to let you view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you've got may not be the right size. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or relocated. It is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each component. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it in the previous step. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size and shape of your upvc window repair, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.