Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. By catching these problems early you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window repair sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. 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 to repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and place it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and their ropes that 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 off the old weather stripping at the corners, then remove it by hand sash window repair or with a putty knife.

After the sash is cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that won't open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if this solves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort but this can be an issue if the weights become worn or if the Sash window Repair meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by many factors, including a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms 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 fix this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

To make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will make it easier to place the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights could be different sizes than what you require. Once the new weight has been installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window repair near the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb level. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small partsing beads out of their grooves. It is important to be patient, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on the components. The sash should be able move freely, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain, sash window repair and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However 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 counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.