Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching these issues early on before they become out of control.

The sash is an interior frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty blade.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window repairs near me trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or Window Repair that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel and then open it to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close without effort, however, this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address 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 secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

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

In order to make these sash repairs it is important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and put 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 the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut 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. Consequently you may have to locate replacements.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallets.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have might not be the right size. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these chains can get damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or relocated. It may be possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. It is important to take your time as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each piece. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it using the step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and are easy to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.