5 Window Sash Repairs Lessons Learned From Professionals

upvc window repairs near me Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is an inside frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, can 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 back to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the window brand Window Sash Repairs and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then remove it manually or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from age and use and the result could be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of things, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

To make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

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 new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may 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 cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or repositioned. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the small parting beads from their grooves. It's important to be patient, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each component. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in the previous step. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They're not expensive and easy to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.