Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. If you catch these issues early you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is an internal frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for a long time. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. 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). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then remove it manually or using a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window doctor trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and let it dry at least one day. After the putty has completely dried and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from age and use, and the result can be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash to access this hardware.

Window 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 meeting rail is not properly glazed. This could be caused by a variety of factors such as an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is secured 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, may be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to position the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable the sash with rope. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window doctor without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new 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 that keep the parts together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallets.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. First, weigh the sash, Window Doctor as the weights you have might not be the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb balanced. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. It is possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each component. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley at 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 do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.