Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues early before they become out of control.

The sash is an interior frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width to find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes, which 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 old weather stripping by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.

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 can't be opened or closed easily. It's important to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if this 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 gain access to this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly glazed. This problem could be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on a window repairs begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. 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).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and general lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To complete these repairs to sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will help you to put the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to locate 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 properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important 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 the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is usually done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with 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 that was previously installed and replace it. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you have may not be the right size. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and must be removed. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the Sash Window Repair. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It's important to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, sash window repair pull 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 without difficulty, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and secure it in the previous step. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and are easy to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.