Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degrade in time because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, 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. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could result in the window or door repair that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't coated. This could be caused by many factors such as a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Many times just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to locate a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and Window Repairs a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to allow you to observe 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 from the sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. It is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or window repairs chisel, to pry the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. It is essential to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

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

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you have the sash open. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.