5 Window Sash Repairs Projects For Any Budget

Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to upvc doors 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 become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear. Thankfully, sash Window Repair repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass repairs or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has a repairing double glazing-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. 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, but you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it 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 a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing and doors repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the issue. If the issue persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut with very little effort, but this is difficult 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 the wrong weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and a general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy costs.

To make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will make it easier to put the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and place it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable sash by a rope. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to find replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back It is therefore important to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be ripped off so that you can view the inside of the frame.

After 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 the new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on each component. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.