Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. If you catch these issues early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (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 the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can also use a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry at least one day. Once the putty has fully cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage, and the result can be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. Many times just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to place the channel in the proper position after you've 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. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose using 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 an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double glazed windows repairs-hung window, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, Window Sash Repairs the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or relocated. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It is important to be patient, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, though it might require oil if it feels 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 at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord, and then secure it in the previous step. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

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