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upvc window repairs Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching the issues in the early stages, before they get out of hand.

The sash is an interior frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or window repairs loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried within the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and let it dry at least one day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of things, such as the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. Many times, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.

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

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose with mallets.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you've got may not be the right size. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and require removal. You could employ a hammer and chisel for window repairs removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small partsing beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, 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 old counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.