Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

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 and let it dry for a minimum of a day. When it's completely dried, RepairMyWindowsAndDoors apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little 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 caused by a variety of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular window repair sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (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 has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to place the channel in the right place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware, RepairMyWindowsAndDoors including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window repairs sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to locate replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.

After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights could be different in size from what you require. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain connected to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and RepairMyWindowsAndDoors will keep it in its position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and must be removed or moved. It is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on each component. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, though it may require oil if it feels stiff.

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

It's best to leave the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not costly and are easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.