Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an inside frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform several simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or degraded as time passes due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass window repair or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could 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 relatively 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 that fixes the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to access this hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a variety of things, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular sash window repair.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In many instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

To complete these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable window sash using rope. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or sash Window repair electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallet.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be of the right size. After the new weight has been installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small partsing beads out of their grooves. It is essential to take your time, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it might require oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain, and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. 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. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it open.