Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look 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. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash upvc window repairs repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, take it off and set it on a table so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double glazed window repairs-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, take it off by hand or with a putty knife.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can also use a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use and the result could be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut without effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a upvc window repair begin to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the Window Repair. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window repairs near me to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.

It's not easy 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 string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed with the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallets.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult 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 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. It may be possible to remove them with a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. It is important to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, though it may require oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights if you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They're not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights might be required to keep it open.