5 Window Sash Repairs Lessons Learned From Professionals

Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to do simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years if they are properly maintained. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. 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). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should be buried inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace 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, but you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least one 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 a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage, and the result can be a window or door that won't open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and Sash Window Repair cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary remove the window sash to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with very little effort, but this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

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

To make these sash repairs it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable sash by rope. They provide counterbalance that allows the upvc window repairs to be opened and Sash window Repair closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve an Sash Window Repair-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed so that you can view the inside of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights may be different in size from the one you need. After the new weight is installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb level. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and must be removed or relocated. It is possible to remove them with a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.