Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on future repairs.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years if they are properly maintained. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate 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, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and 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 coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely the sash balance. You will need to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't covered with. This problem could be caused by many factors, including the lack 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 in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and Window repairs save the homeowner money on energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will help you to put the channel in the right place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable sash by a rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the window repair near me to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be the correct size. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or repositioned. You might be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Measure the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in the previous step. You can do this with 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 best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They are not expensive and easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.