Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and window repairs maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut with minimal effort but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms of a upvc window repair are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew 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 of energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older homes, can be difficult to open or 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.

In order to make these sash repairs, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable window sash using a rope. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for window repairs mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when 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. You could use a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It's important to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.