5 Window Sash Repairs Projects For Every Budget

Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early, before they get out of hand.
The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to make several simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, can last for a long time. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.
After the sash is cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stopper and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort however, this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the particular window sash.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. Many times, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly and save homeowners money on energy bills.
It is important to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you to position the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag that is labeled.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to search for replacements.
It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallets.
After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood which can be removed to let you see the inner workings of the frame.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights could be different sizes than what is needed. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding 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 supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time, these chains can become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. upvc windows repair will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position when opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. It is possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After upvc window repair have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. 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 attached to each component. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
Determine the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They're not costly and are easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.