Five Window Sash Repairs Lessons From Professionals

Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be checked regularly 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 internal frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood upvc window repairs sashes add an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, Sash Window Repair you must remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then remove it manually or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. When the putty is fully cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally 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 it solves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of things, such as the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the Sash window repair is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you to put the channel in the correct location after you've completed. 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 an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to search for replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is usually done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be a different size than the one you need. After the new weight has been installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it impossible 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 position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. It is possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed and it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on the components. The sash should move freely, however it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and then attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.