Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an internal frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform several simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, can last for years. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for window repairs the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the old weather stripping at the corners, then take it off by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash is cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cured, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if that fixes the issue. If the problem persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to take off the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, upvc window repairs near me sashes should be able to open and close without effort, however, this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window repairs begin to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can 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 a general lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to put the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable sash by rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut 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. Consequently you may have to search for replacements.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and Window repairs thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be snipped out and it's worth your time here. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each piece. The sash should move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it using Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.