Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. If you catch these issues early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for years. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start 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). Remove the Sash window repair, and mark its width and height so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take it off and set it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and their ropes which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry at least one day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports 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 important to know that replacing and repairing upvc windows this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to take off the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close without effort, but this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This could be caused by a variety of factors that include an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges 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 remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows especially in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

To make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to locate replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be ripped off so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what you require. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays 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 installed by screws or nails and must be removed or repositioned. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. It is essential to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, although it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. 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 than screws to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.