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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 repairs in the future.

The sash is an internal frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window repair sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded in time because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This can result in a door or a Upvc Window repair that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue persists it's most likely the sash balance. You'll need to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut without effort, but this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number 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 starting to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older houses, could be difficult to open and 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 sash repairs it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag 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 made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. 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 made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to allow you to observe 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 new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights may be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb level. As time passes, Upvc window repair these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and must be removed. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. It is important to be patient because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to each component. You should be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights if you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.