Window Sash Repairs

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

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 do simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood glass window repair sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they can become damaged or sash window repair degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass window repair's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height, so you can find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash is cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace these 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 trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if it resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely the sash balance. You'll need remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by a variety of factors that include a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash window Repair and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or a mallet.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be different sizes than what you require. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and sash window repair render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. It may be possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before 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. It is essential to be patient, as these are often 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 take out each wood peg. The sash should move freely, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have 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 simple to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.