Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers 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 for the parting and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least one 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 holds the windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repairing double glazed windows this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if this fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, window repairs this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly glazed. This issue could be caused by many factors, including the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen 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 open and close due to hinges that are sagging and general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To complete these repairs to sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to put the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and store it in an 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 hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable the sash with rope. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new 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 old wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights could be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double glazing window repairs-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain connected to the weights that keeps the sashes level within the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or moved. It is possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be snipped out and it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord, and then attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They're not costly and simple to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.