Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, window repair take the sash off and mark its width and height, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, take it off and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's important to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, Window Repair sashes should swing open and closed with very little effort, but this is difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of factors, including the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly once more and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable window sash using rope. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is important to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord, and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.