Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching problems early on, before they become out of control.

The sash is an inside frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, start by finding your window repair brand and glass manufacturer date (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, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and place it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has been double glazed window repairs-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can also use for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use and the result could 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 typically relatively easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This could be caused by a variety of factors, including an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy costs.

To complete these sash repairs it is essential to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to position the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often ignored 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 is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallet.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and window repairs 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 screwed or nailed into and must be removed. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pry 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 might require oiling if it seems 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 on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However 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 weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and are easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the dimensions and Window Repairs shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.