Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching these issues in the early stages, before they get out of hand.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to do easy upvc doors repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It's on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash was double glazing window repair-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, and then remove it manually or using a putty knife.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. When the putty is fully cure it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out over time and 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 straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if it solves the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash to access this hardware.

Window sashes should 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 coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable window sash using a rope. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

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 new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed to let you view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be of the right size. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double glaze repair-hung windows the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore 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. They are typically attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. It is possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the tiny parting beads from their grooves. It is essential to take your time because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on each piece. The sash should move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord, and then 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.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.