Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching problems in the early stages before they get out of hand.

The sash is an internal 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

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and window repairs place it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the weather stripping from the corners. Then, take it off by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage, and the result can be a window or upvc door repairs near me that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash to access this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed without effort, but this is an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and an overall inefficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

To make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable the sash with rope. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

It's difficult 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 fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and Window Repairs must be removed or repositioned. You could use a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. It's important to be patient as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, although it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's 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 window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.