Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues early on, before they get out of hand.

The sash is an inside frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will show you how to do simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for many years. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could result in the window or upvc door repairs near me that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it fixes the problem. If the issue persists it's likely the sash balance. It is necessary remove the window sash to reach this hardware.

Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

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

It is essential to have the tools you require before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the right location after you've completed. Remove the sash, window repairs 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 using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable sash by a rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window repairs near me to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to let you view the inside of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights could be different in size from the one you need. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and must be removed or relocated. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin 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 in, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain, and then fix it using the previous step. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.