Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate in time because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the window brand and the 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 that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double glazed window repair-hung, remove the weights using their ropes 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 weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can also use a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry at least one day. Once the putty has fully cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a window repairs or door that won't open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed without effort, but this is difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to 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 frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In many instances, a few easy repairs to double glazing windows can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a 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 beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

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

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallet.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you have may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb level. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain, and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.