Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as 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). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and place it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double glazing repairs-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with the putty blade.

After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace 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, however you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

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

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely the sash balance. You will need to take off the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with very little effort, however, this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by many factors, including an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can 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 problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of 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 (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will make it easier to put the channel in the right place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable the sash with rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to locate 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 fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off so that you can view the inside of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight is installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most double glazing repairs near me-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced within the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and must be removed. It may be possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. It's important to be patient as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights might be required to keep it open.