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 these issues in the early stages, before they become too much.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it manually or with a putty knife.

After the sash is cleared, you can replace parting stops. 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 the desired length, 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 dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort but this can be an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms on a upvc window repairs near me begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To complete these sash repairs, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to position the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable sash by a rope. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to find replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off to let you see the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. First, weigh the sash because the weights you've got may not be the correct size. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double glazed window repairs-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you 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 usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or moved. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be snipped out and it's worth your time here. If the sash is 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 the components. The sash should be able move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and then secure it in the previous step. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.