Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on future repairs.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the upvc window repairs's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can get 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 your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty blade.

After the sash is cleared, you can install parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch upvc window repair trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least one day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that solves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need to take off the window sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by various reasons, including an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To make these repairs to the sash, 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 a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

If your Window repair sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end 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 which keeps the sashes level in the jamb. Over time these cords can 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 place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and must be removed. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. It's important to take your time, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in the previous step. You can either use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window repair you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.