Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early, before they get out of hand.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time 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 a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it manually or with a putty knife.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window repairs near me trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from age and use and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel then open it to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to take off the window sash to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut without effort, however, this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This can be due to a variety of factors that include an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and general inefficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to position the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, Window repairs and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a replacement that is suitable for the. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or a mallet.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood which can be removed so that you can view the inside of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and 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 nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. You could employ a hammer and chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It is important to take your time, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may need some lubrication to feel less 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 on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They are not expensive and simple to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights might be required to keep it in an open position.