Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take it off and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and their ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty knife.

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

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for window a minimum of a day. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from time and usage and the result could be a window replacement or door that won't open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if this fixes the problem. If the problem persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of reasons, window such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and a general lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to place the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable the sash with rope. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. First, weigh the sash because the weights you have might not be the right size. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. You could use a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It is essential to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may need some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in the previous step. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They are not expensive and easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.