Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. By catching these problems early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, can last for many years. However, window repairs they may become damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts and other issues. 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). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.

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

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out over time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash to access the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, window repairs this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This problem could be caused by many factors that include a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to the sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the right place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to find replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of 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. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood which can be removed to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you have might not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. It is essential to take your time because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They're not costly and simple to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window repairs you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.