Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues in the early stages before they become out of control.

The sash is an interior frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time if they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, window repair then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from age and use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if this solves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash 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 a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to find replacements.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallet.

After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off so that you can view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be different in size from what you require. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the Window Repair. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and must be removed. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free, window repair so it's worth taking your time. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to the components. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They're not costly and are easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.