Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early before they become out of control.

The sash is an inside frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or window repairs using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two 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 scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to access this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood which can be removed to let you view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb level. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or relocated. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. It is important to take your time because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each piece. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

Determine the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and attach it as described in the previous step. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Based on the size and shape of your window repairs near me, you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.