Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. By catching these problems early you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for window repair many years when they are maintained properly. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use, and the result can be a door repair or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If the problem persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary to remove the window repairs sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with minimal effort but this is an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a number of things, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinge arms on a window repair begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

To make these sash repairs it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will help you get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep your windows functioning, Window Repair replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done through tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood which can be removed to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than the one you need. After the new weight has been installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. You could use a hammer or chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, although it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

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

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best 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 have the sash unlocked. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.