Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching these issues early on, before they become out of control.

The sash is an inside frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden upvc window repairs (read on) sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash is cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with very little effort, but this is an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is 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, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

To complete these sash repairs it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable the sash with a rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to find replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve 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 sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be the right size. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes balanced within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window doctor. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting 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 the chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.