Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early, before they get out of hand.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and Window Sash Repairs tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's on both the frame and sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and set it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, and then take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. After the putty has completely cure it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage and the result could be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then open it to see if that solves the issue. If the issue continues it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with minimal effort however, this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem could be caused by many factors, including a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and general inefficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy bills.

In order to make these sash repairs, it's important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and a mallet.

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. First, weigh the sash because the weights you have might not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double glazing windows repair-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when 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. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is important to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to the components. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.

Measure the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain, and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size of your window repairs, two or three sash weights might be required to keep it open.