Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching these problems early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an internal frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for years. However, they may become damaged or degrade in time because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash was double glazing-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then remove it manually or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access the hardware.

Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This problem could be caused by a variety of factors such as a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

To complete these repairs to sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will make it easier 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 that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable sash by rope. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to find replacements.

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

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb balanced. Over time, these chains can get damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. You might be able to employ a hammer and chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small partsing beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely, however it may need some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Measure the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights might be required to keep it open.