Five Window Sash Repairs Lessons From The Pros

Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an internal frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate in time because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. Start by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take it off and set it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide 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 with a scrap piece of wood.

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 day. Once the putty has fully dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if this fixes the problem. If the issue persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to take off the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut without effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be due to various reasons that include an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the upvc window repairs. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and general lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the upvc window repairs without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to find a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, window repairs a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. It may be possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around without difficulty, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord, and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights if you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.