Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an interior frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for a long time. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated 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.

Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing windows with sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their ropes which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These 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 trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel and then open it to see if that solves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need to take off the upvc window repairs near me sash in order to reach this hardware.

Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't coated. This issue can be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure 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 remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallets.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be a different size than the one you need. After the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior house to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. It is essential to take your time as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. 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 on the components. The sash should move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely 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 weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.