Window Sash Repairs

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

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

Weather Stripping

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

The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start 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, wooden take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry at least a day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with very little effort, but this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and an overall inefficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

In order to make these sash repairs it is important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to place the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and put it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallets.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done via a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double glazing near me-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in position when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. You could use a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. It is essential to be patient as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.