10 Window Sash Repairs That Are Unexpected

Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on upvc repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will show you how to do simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or degraded as time passes due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It's located 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). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and set it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash is cleared, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can also use a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least a day. When it's completely 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 windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the problem is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with minimal effort but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be due to a variety of factors such as an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Many times, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to sash 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 pencil. This will make it easier to put the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable sash by rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs 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. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is usually done via an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood which can be removed so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be the right size. After the new weight has been installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double glazing repair-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or repositioned. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It is important to take your time, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on the components. You should be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

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

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They're not costly and simple to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.