Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash Repair My Windows And Doors experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the brand of window repair and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces wood that divide 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 use a piece of scrap wood.

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

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue continues it's most likely the sash balance. You'll need remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly covered with. This issue can be due to a variety of factors, including an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely 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 need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and general inefficiency. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the position 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. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable the sash with a rope. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or Repair My Windows And Doors disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights could be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. 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 keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and require removal. You could use a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. It is essential to be patient because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain, and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it in an open position.