Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can save future repair costs by catching the issues early, before they get out of hand.

The sash is an interior frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. However, they may become damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand 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 that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

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

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry at least one day. After the putty has completely cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if it fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to take off the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with very little effort, however, this can be difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific window repair near sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you to put the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash 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. Take off the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable the sash with rope. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to find replacements.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a 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 take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights could be a different size than what you require. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move 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. They are usually installed by screws or window sash repairs nails and must be removed or moved. It may be possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. It is essential to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as 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 not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size and shape of your pvc window repairs you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.