15 Interesting Facts About Window Sash Repairs That You Didn't Know About

Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching problems early, before they become too much.

The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for many years. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

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

Next, remove the sash and set it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their ropes which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners, and then take it off 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 are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you can also use for a scrap piece of lumber.

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

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 repair or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need to remove the upvc window repairs sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut without effort, however, this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a number of factors, including insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a upvc window repair near me begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. Many times just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you to place the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Take off 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 by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable the sash with rope. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallet.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood which can be removed to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. It is essential to take your time because they are usually wedged or window repair nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and fix it using Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.