10 Healthy Habits For Window Sash Repairs

Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple upvc repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, start by determining your window Doctor's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear, you can 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. However, you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and trimming 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. After the putty has completely cure it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash to access this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly once more and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and place it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to locate a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallets.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and must be removed. It may be possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed and it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They are not expensive and simple to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.