Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on future repairs.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. They can, however, 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 much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

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

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use scrap 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 with your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This can result in the window or door repair that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if it solves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to access this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut with very little effort, but this is difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

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

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or window repairs chains that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable sash by rope. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use 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 It is therefore important to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be the correct size. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and must be removed. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be removed and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to the components. The sash should be able to move freely, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you have 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.