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Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues in the early stages, before they become too much.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic 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 and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (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 you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, then take it off by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also use for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length, window repairs apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut without effort, but this is difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of things, such as insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is centered in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools needed before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off and then remove all 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 putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to find replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length 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 holding the parts together. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be ripped off to let you view the inside of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have might not be the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, run 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 old double-hung windows, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords may break, Window repairs making it impossible to raise the window repair. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You could use a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Make the small 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 which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to each component. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

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

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it open.