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Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, take it off and place it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, and then remove it manually or using a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. They are long pieces of 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, however you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports Window repair sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel then open it to see if that solves the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed with minimal effort but this is an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the upvc window repair. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew 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 particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly again and Window repair save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will help you to position the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable window sash using rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to locate replacements.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or a mallet.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done through tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. As time passes, 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 upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and require removal. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on each piece. The sash should move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and secure it in Step 6 above. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. 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 unlocked. Based on the size of your window repairs near me one or two sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.