Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows 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 an internal frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. However, Window Repairs they can be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash was double glazed window repairs-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After the putty has completely dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's likely the sash balance. You'll need to take off the window sash to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut without effort, but this is difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash's 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 window sash.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. Many times, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

To make these repairs to sash 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 pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights could be different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these chains can get damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and window repairs the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash open. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights could be needed to keep it open.