Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows repair that open. This article will show you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for years. However, they may become damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should be buried inside the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry at least one day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then open it to see if it fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be due to a variety of factors, including a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. Many times just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To make these sash repairs it is essential to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and Sash Window Repair connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be a different size than the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, sash window repair a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise 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. They are usually fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or relocated. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash window Repair. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the small partsing beads out of their grooves. It is important to take your time because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash window repair remains in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, although it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it using the previous step. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They are not expensive and easy to install if you purchase them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.