Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an internal frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry at least one day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This can result in the window or door repair that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then open it to see if that resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely the sash balance. You will need remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to search for replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. 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 keep the parts together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallet.

After the sash has been removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be of the right size. After the new weight has been installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb level. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when 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 will require to be removed or window repairs relocated. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After you have removed 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 important to be patient as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems 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 on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then attach it as described in the 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 to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They are not expensive and easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.