Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an internal frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, can last for many years. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash is double glazed window repairs-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. Once the putty has fully cure and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue continues it's most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to take off the window sash to reach this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly covered with. This issue can be caused by a variety of things, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, replacements may be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools needed before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to place the channel in the right position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done via a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or repositioned. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is essential to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on the components. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it may require oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.