Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching problems early before they get out of hand.

The sash is an interior frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step for repair window sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash is double glazing repair-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their ropes which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, 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. After the putty has completely dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and use. This could lead to a upvc door repairs or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then open it to see if this solves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with very little effort, however, this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and a general lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you require before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and place it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double glazing window repairs-hung windows come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these cords can become damaged and render it impossible to raise upvc windows repair. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position 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 need to be removed. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It's important to take your time, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each piece. You should be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

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

If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.