Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. 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 demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate over time due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. However, sash repair upvc window experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and sash. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass repairs (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 purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with the putty blade.

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

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if this fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary remove the window sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed without effort, however, this can be difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This could be caused by a variety of factors such as a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In most instances, a few easy upvc repairs can transform these upvc windows repairs into smooth operation and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back in 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. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers that allows the upvc window repairs to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be cut off to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights may be different in size from what you require. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down 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 will require to be removed or moved. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the small parting beads from their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be removed and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and secure it in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights might be required to keep it open.