Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early before they become too much.

The sash is the internal 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

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows 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 in the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with the putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then open it to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window repairs near me sashes must move open and shut with minimal effort but this is an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of factors, including insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and general inefficiency. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

To make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the 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 holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what you require. After the new weight has been installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you 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. These are usually screwed or nailed in and require removal. You could employ a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It's important to take your time, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in Step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights if you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it open.