Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an inside frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they can become damaged or repairmywindowsanddoors degrade over time due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left 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 trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also use for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports upvc window repair sashes prone to wearing out from time and usage and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if that solves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash to access this hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly covered with. This problem can be due to various reasons such as an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is centered in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

To complete these sash repairs, it's important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will make it easier to put the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable the sash with rope. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to find replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which 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 sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or a mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on the components. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, repairmywindowsanddoors though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, but 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 to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.