Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. By catching these problems early you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash Repair My Windows And Doors experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, start 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, Repair My Windows And Doors remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

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. However, you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. After the putty has completely cure and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This could lead to the window or door repair that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue persists it's most likely the sash balance. It is necessary remove the window sash to access the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by many factors such as an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and an overall inefficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to put the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable the sash with a rope. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be 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 new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the components together. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done via tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off to let you see the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights could be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It may be possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the small parting beads from their grooves. It is important to be patient because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on the components. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

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

It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.