Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. By catching these problems early you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an interior frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn out or Window repairs loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so that you can get 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 access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually straightforward 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 solves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly glazed. This could be caused by many factors such as a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Many times, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window sash upvc door repairs near me are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy, window repairs lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable the sash with rope. 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 tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also need a new piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to the components. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and secure it in the step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They're not expensive and simple to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.