Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching these issues early on before they get out of hand.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for a long time. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and Window Sash Repairs the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, take it off and place it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash is double glazing window repairs-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also use with a scrap piece of wood.

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

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This issue could be caused by many factors, including an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to 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 allow you to position the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance that allows 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; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallets.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done through a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you've got may not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and must be removed. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It's important to take your time because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, although it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then 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.

If you don't have an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.