Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early, before they become out of control.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they can become damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for 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 you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window replacement trim from the lumberyard, but you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least one day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. 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 not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with very little effort, however, this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for a particular window replacement sash.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. Many times just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

To make these repairs to sash, it's important 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 assist you in getting the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and put it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallet.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done via a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be different sizes than the one you need. Once the new weight is in place, Doors tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and require removal. You could use a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.