Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to remove the old weather stripping at the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window repair trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed without effort, however, this can be an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of things, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window repair. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable window sash using a rope. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a replacement that is suitable for the. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose with a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel 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 removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight is installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

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

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them with a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. It is essential to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or replacement screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each piece. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights might be required to keep it in an open position.