Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues early, before they become out of control.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

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

Then, take it off and place it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. When the putty is fully cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

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

Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't coated. This issue can be due to many factors such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash was fixed to 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, older windows especially in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. Many times, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to put the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and window repairs a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using a rope. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to locate a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. 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. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most old double glazing repairs-hung windows come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you 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. They are typically installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or repositioned. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It is important to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window one or two sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.