Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early on, before they become out of control.

The sash is an inside frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over 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.

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

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and their ropes which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage and the result could be a window or Window Repairs door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's important to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue persists, it is most likely the sash balance. It is necessary to remove the upvc window repair sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with minimal effort however, this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific window sash.

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

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To make these sash repairs it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will help you to position the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable the sash with rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer 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 crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done via tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off so that you can view the inside of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on each component. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, though it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in the previous step. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They're not costly and are easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.