Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. By catching these problems early you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

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

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry at least a day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This could lead to a door or Window Repairs a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if this solves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to access the hardware.

window repair sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This problem can be caused by a number of factors, including lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms 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 fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

To make these sash repairs it is essential to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, window repairs including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and store it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find 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.

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

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights could be different in size from what you require. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double glazed window repairs-hung window the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb level. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You could use a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. It is important to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it will probably need some oiling if it seems 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 at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not costly and easy to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.