Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues in the early stages before they get out of hand.

The sash is an interior frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step in repair upvc door sash window damage is to fix weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has a double glazing windows repairs-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash is cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also use for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of double glazing window repairs compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry for at least one day. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use, and the result can be a door repairing or window that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly coated. This can be due to a variety of factors that include an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is 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 homes, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to the sash it is 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 a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. 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.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. 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 by using a knife and mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight has been installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double glazed windows repairs-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and must be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and then fix it using the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to 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 open. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.