Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching these issues early, before they become out of control.

The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years when they are maintained properly. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal 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 for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners. Then, install remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to the hardware.

repairing window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't coated. This could be caused by many factors, including an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. 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 ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to find replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

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

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood which can be removed to let you view the inside of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you've got may not be of the right size. After the new weight has been installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. It may be possible to remove them with a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It is essential to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each component. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

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

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. They're not costly and are easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.