Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they may become damaged or degrade over time because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, window repairs use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

When the sash is clean and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can also use a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if that solves the issue. If the issue continues it's likely the sash balance. It is necessary to remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This issue can be caused by a number of factors, including insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. Many times just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and place it in a bag that is 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, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to find a replacement that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights may be different in size from what you require. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double glazing repairs-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or relocated. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, 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 is important to be patient because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on each component. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.