A Brief History Of Window Sash Repairs In 10 Milestones

Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues early on before they become too much.

The sash is an internal frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and the sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, window repair and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty knife.

When the sash is clean and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch Window Repair trim from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top 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 may wear out with time and use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then open it to see if it solves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and window repair close without effort, but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This could be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window repair. If the sash is fixed 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 homes, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To complete these sash repairs it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to locate replacements.

It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallet.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the 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 attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and require removal. It is possible to remove them using the 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 begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on each component. You should now be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it will probably need some 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 on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and fix it using the previous step. You can use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They are not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your upvc window repairs, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.