Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early on before they become out of control.

The sash is an inside frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for years. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair timber windows specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It's on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or Sash Window Repair on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty knife.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop 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 let it dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if this solves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to access the hardware.

Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This problem could be caused by various reasons that include the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. 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 next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools needed before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable sash by a rope. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash window repair stops and access the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. First, Sash Window Repair weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you have may not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double glazed window repair-hung windows, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these chains can get damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore 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 typically attached by nails or screws and must be removed. It is possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer, 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.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.