Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden upvc window repairs near me sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners, then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash is cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry at least a day. After the putty has completely cure it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's likely the sash balance. It is necessary remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to locate replacements.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After 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 new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and must be removed or relocated. It is possible to remove them with a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to the components. The sash should move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and are easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.