Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues in the early stages, before they become too much.

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or 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). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take it off and set it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully cure and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a upvc window repairs or door that won't open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel then open it to see if that resolves the issue. If the problem persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to take off the window sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, but this can be an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been 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).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

To complete these sash repairs it is essential to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window repairs near me sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or Window Repairs iron cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that 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 the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the components together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes 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 section loose using a mallet.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off to let you see the inner workings of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, window repairs a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and require removal. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to the components. You should be able to move the sash around freely, although it might require 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 fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and simple to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.