Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching problems in the early stages, before they become too much.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back 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, which is found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty knife.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could also 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 to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if that resolves the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely the sash balance. You will need to remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors, including insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is centered in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with a nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable sash by a rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the window repair to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to find replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of 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 section loose using a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood which can be removed to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights could be different sizes than what you require. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or repositioned. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. It is important to be patient as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on the components. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights if you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. 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 unlocked. Based on the size of your window one or two sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.