Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an inside frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or degrade in time due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash has been double glazed window repair-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and let it dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that won't open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if this resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with very little effort, but this can be difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by many factors, including a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. Many times 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.

In order to make these sash repairs it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable sash by rope. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to find replacements.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. 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.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash window repair stops and access the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be cut off to let you view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and sash Window repair replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be the right size. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head 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 in the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It may be possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.