Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they can 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 keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried within the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.

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

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close without effort, but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This can be due to many factors such as an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window repairs near me are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will make it easier to position the channel in the right place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable sash by a rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of 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 using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallet.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and window repairs get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights could be different sizes than what is needed. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. 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 nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or relocated. You could use a hammer or chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is essential to be patient, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each piece. The sash should move freely, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in the previous step. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and are easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your upvc window repairs near me one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.