Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early on, before they get out of hand.

The sash is an interior frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to make several simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window replacement sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and Repairmywindowsanddoors height so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

When the sash is clean it is time to replace 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 trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, 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 a day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, window doctor sashes must swing open and closed with minimal effort but this is an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will make it easier to place the channel in the right location after you've completed. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using a rope. 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 ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and RepairMyWindowsAndDoors tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time these cords can 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 position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out and it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.