Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching the issues early on before they become out of control.

The sash is an internal frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will show you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window repair (learn the facts here now) sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, so you can find replacement weather stripping to match.

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

After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry for at least one day. After the putty has completely cure it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If the problem persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need to remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut without effort, but this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This can be due to many factors that include a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

To make these sash repairs, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin 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 the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable window sash using a rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.

It's not easy 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 new piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial 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 with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose with mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and access the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be cut off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Weigh the sash first because the weights you've got may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in position when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them 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 to work on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is important to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it using the step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.