Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. By catching these problems early, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an interior frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they can be damaged or Window Sash Repairs degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair windows specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (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 purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take it off and set it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and window sash repairs let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close without effort, but this can be a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be due to a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will make it easier to put the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Take the sash off, 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 nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need 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 correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed to let you view the inside of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be the correct size. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and must be removed. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the small partsing beads out of their grooves. It is essential to take your time because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it in the previous step. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window one or two sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.