Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

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

Next, remove the sash and set it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, take it off by hand or with a putty knife.

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

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

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with minimal effort however, this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash window repair's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To complete these sash repairs it is essential to have all the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable the sash with rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to let you see the inner workings of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be different in size from the one you need. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and Sash Window Repair must be removed. It may be possible to remove them with a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the small partsing beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed and it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash windows repair cord/chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash open. Based on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.