Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and window sash repairs mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform several simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance 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 as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, you can 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, remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using the putty blade.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in 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. However, you can also use with a scrap piece of wood.

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 the compound using your putty tool and let it dry at least a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window repairs sashes can wear out over time and use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors that include an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

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

To make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to place the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and window sash Repairs cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done via tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

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 the new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what you require. Once the new weight has been installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes level within the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. 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 you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. It is important to take your time, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on each component. The sash should move freely, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and attach it as described in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash open. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.