Notes

The Often Unknown Benefits Of Window Sash Repairs
Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can save future repair costs by catching these issues early on before they become out of control.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they can become damaged or degrade in time because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use scrap wood.

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

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the problem is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to access this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut with minimal effort but this can be difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy costs.

To make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.


A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you've got may not be of the right size. After the new weight has been installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its position when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or repositioned. 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 beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the small partsing beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on the components. The sash should be able move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and fix it using the previous step. upvc window repairs near me can either employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.

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