10 Window Sash Repairs That Are Unexpected

Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. You can save future repair costs by catching these issues early before they become out of control.

The sash is an interior frame that can move up and Sash window repair down vertically in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repair 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 loose. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window 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 width and height so you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out 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 cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then take it off by hand or with a putty knife.

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

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if that fixes the issue. If the issue continues it's likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut without effort, but this is difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by many factors that include the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your upvc window repairs sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable the sash with rope. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated 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. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight 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 different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place 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 into and must be removed. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. It is important to be patient, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on each component. The sash should move freely, however it may need some lubrication to feel less stiff.

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

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.