Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues early on, before they get out of hand.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to elements and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could also use with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if this fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window repair sashes must move open and shut with minimal effort but this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This can be due to many factors, including a lack of maintenance and a mismatched 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 resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

To complete these sash repairs, it's important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. 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 just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable window sash using a rope. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to find a replacement that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to let you see the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or Window repair moved. It may be possible to take them out using a hammer or window Repair chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It's important to be patient because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each component. The sash should move freely, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in the previous step. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

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