Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching the issues in the early stages before they become out of control.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate as time passes because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with scrap wood.

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

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and window sash repairs close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of things, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable sash by rope. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than the one you need. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double glazed window repair-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or moved. You could use a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads from their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on the components. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

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

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.