Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. If you catch these issues early you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an inside frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for many years. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the window repair's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can also use for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, window repairs apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and allow it to dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if that fixes the issue. If the issue continues it's most likely the sash balance. You will need to remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut without effort, but this can be an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

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

To make these sash repairs, it's important 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 place the channel in the right position after you've finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and put it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to search for replacements.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance within 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 hold it in position when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. It is important to take your time as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each piece. You should now be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not costly and simple to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it open.