Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of 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 demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (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 replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, near you can use it to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then remove it manually or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's likely the sash balance. You will need to remove the window sash to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window glass repair near me sashes must move open and shut with minimal effort but this is a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be due to a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable the sash with a rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying 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. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Weigh the sash first because the weights you've got may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb balanced. Over time, these chains can get damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. You could use a hammer and chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

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

If you don't have an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and near are easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.