Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an inside frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and set it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash was double glazing repairs-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace these 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 over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for window repairs a minimum of a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then open it to see if this solves the issue. If the issue persists it's most likely the sash balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close without effort, but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be due to various reasons, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. Many times just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly again and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

In order to make these sash repairs, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to put the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or window repairs lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to locate replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights may be different sizes than what you require. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double glazing repairs near me-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. It may be possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each component. The sash should be able move freely, however it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

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

If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and simple to install if you purchase them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it in an open position.