Window Sash Repairs

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

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate in time because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step in repair double glazed windows sash windows is to address weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least one day. After the putty has completely 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 window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use, Window Sash Repairs and the result can be a window or door that won't open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This issue can be due to various reasons, including the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

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 fix this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly again and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to place the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable the sash with rope. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to find replacements.

It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallets.

After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you have may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most double glazing windows repair-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that helps keep 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 cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or relocated. It may be possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. It's important to take your time, 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. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

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

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.