Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on repairs in the future.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they may become damaged or degraded over time because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has been double glazed window repairs-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the old weather stripping at the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

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 using your putty tool and let it dry at least a day. After the putty has completely cure it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that solves the issue. If the issue persists, it is most likely the sash balance. It is necessary to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly covered with. This can be due to a variety of factors that include a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then take it out of the Window repair. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

In order to make these sash repairs it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to position the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable the sash with rope. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the upvc window repairs to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done via a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be cut off so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you have may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the narrow parting beads from their grooves. It is important to be patient because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on each component. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased 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 purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.