Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an interior frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by determining your window repairs's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take it off and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and 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 wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry at least one day. After it has fully dried, 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 window repair sashes can wear out over time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if it resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely the sash balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut with minimal effort but this is a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, Sash Window repair take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to sash it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights could be a different size than what you require. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It's important to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on the components. You should now be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/Sash window Repair cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and secure it in the step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.