Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early, before they become out of control.

The sash is an internal frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for a long time. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step for 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, 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, remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash was double glazing repairs-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can install 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 substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least one day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's most likely the sash balance. You will need to remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with very little effort, however, this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you get the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose with mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. First, weigh the sash because the weights you have may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these cords could 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 opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always better 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. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash around without difficulty, though it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.

Measure the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain, and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window repair near me, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.