See What Window Sash Repairs Tricks The Celebs Are Using

Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues in the early stages, before they become out of control.

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double glazed repairs-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace these 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 stopper for the parting and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least one day. Once the putty has fully dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window repairman near me sashes susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage, and the result can be a window or upvc door repairs near me that won't open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel and then open it to see if that solves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with very little effort, but this is difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's 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 window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have 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 in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

To make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable sash by rope. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold 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 first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to let you view the inside of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights could be different sizes than the one you need. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance in the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and require removal. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. It is essential to take your time because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it in the step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the size and shape of your upvc window repair, you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.