Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an inside frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue continues, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window repairs sashes to be able to open and close with very little effort, but this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors, including insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, 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 opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and a general inefficiency. Many times, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to place the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Take the sash off, 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 can soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and store it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window repair sash. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to locate replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights may be different sizes than what you require. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights which keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You could use a hammer or chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Measure 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 cord/chain and then secure it as in the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights if you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window repair near me you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.