Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching problems early on before they become too much.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for many years. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance 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 damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Next, remove the sash Window repair and place it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash was repairing double glazed windows-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, then take it off by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least one day. After the putty has completely cure, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed without effort, but this is difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors such as a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and general inefficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

To make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to place the channel in the right position after you've finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and sash window repair fitted with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to search for 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 fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be cut off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed into and require removal. It is possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each component. The sash should move freely, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them from salvage shops for architectural use. 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.