Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an interior frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for a long time. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the old weather stripping at the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch upvc window repairs trim from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length then 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 a minimum of a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if it 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 to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with minimal effort however, this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To complete these repairs to sash it is essential to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to place the channel in the right place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or window repairs iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable window sash using rope. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to locate replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.

After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be ripped 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 remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you have might not be the right size. After the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these cords can become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and require removal. It may be possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It is important to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, although it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

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

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.