Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. If you catch these issues early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair windows experts can restore repair windows to their original state and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing 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's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and their 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 that was left by hand or with the putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry at least a day. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This can result in the window or door Window Sash Repairs that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's likely the sash balance. It is necessary to remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows especially in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the correct place when you are finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is usually done via an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be of the right size. After the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then attach the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb level. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it 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 usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. You could use a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. It is important to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each component. The sash should be able to move freely, however it might require some lubrication to make it 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 in the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and attach it as described in the previous step. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.