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Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an inside frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts and 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 height and width to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage and the result could be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's important to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if that resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need to take off the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of factors, including insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. Many times just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and put it in a 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 by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled 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 is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights may be different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb level. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. You could use a hammer or chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. It's important to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each piece. The sash should be able move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.