Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an internal frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform several simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and 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 you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and their ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash 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 that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use, and the result can be a door or window that won't open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some grease 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 sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access the hardware.

Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't covered with. This issue can be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. Many times just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or Window Repairs simply to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and connected by ropes to the movable local window repair sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to find replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to locate a new one that is suitable for the. 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 cut off the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double glazed window repair-hung windows include a chain or cord connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and window repairs remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them 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 start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around without difficulty, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley on 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 use either nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you have the sash open. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.