Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for many years. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or window repairs loose. Begin 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, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should be buried in the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting 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 let it dry for at least a few days. After the putty has completely cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh 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 could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly coated. This can be due to a variety of factors such as the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to position the channel in the right place when you are finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window repair sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable sash by a rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed 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 properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done through a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have might not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these cords can become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and must be removed. You might be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to the components. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain, and then fix it using the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.