Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window repairs sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, window repairs due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find replacement weather stripping to match.

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

After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can also use a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out over time and use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if this fixes the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with very little effort, however, this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific 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 directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash 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 labeled.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.

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

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you have might not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and must be removed. It is possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be removed and it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.