Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate in time because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows 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 worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by finding your window 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 width and height to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, take it off and place it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should be buried in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry at least one day. Once the putty has fully cure and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.

Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, replaced can be difficult to open and close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will help you get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to locate replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and replaced some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to let you view the inside of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. First, weigh the sash because the weights you have may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb level. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. It may be possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window repair you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.