Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the Window repair sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on future repairs.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they can become damaged or degraded as time passes because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or using the putty blade.

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

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry at least a day. After the putty has completely cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from age and use and the result could be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if that fixes the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely the sash balance. It is necessary remove the window sash to reach this hardware.

Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

To complete these repairs to sash it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to put the channel in the proper 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. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

If your upvc window repair near me sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the movable window repair sash. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off so that you can view the inside of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You could employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be prised free and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each component. You should be able to move the sash around freely, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

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

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.