Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early on, before they become too much.

The sash is an inside frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs (recent 45 blog post) 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 and other issues. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. Once it's fully cured, 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 window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue continues, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need to take off the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't covered with. This could be caused by a variety of factors, including an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In many cases just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you require before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable the sash with rope. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most double glazed window repairs-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes level in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when it is 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 require to be removed or relocated. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, though it may require oil if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it using the previous step. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They're not costly and easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.