Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early on before they become out of control.

The sash is an internal frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for a long time. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and Window repairs maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

The first step in 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 cause drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. Once the putty has fully cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue continues, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close without effort, however, this can be an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or window repairs by an incorrect weight rating for the particular upvc window repair sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to put the channel in the right location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you have may not be the correct size. Once the new weight has been installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double glazed window repairs-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. It is possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the small parting beads out of their grooves. It's important to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on each piece. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, although it might require oil if it feels stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and secure it in the previous step. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not costly and easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.