Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching these issues early before they get out of hand.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they can be damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off 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.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops 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 tool and let it dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if that fixes the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary to take off the Window Repair sash in order to reach this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows especially in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

In order to make these sash repairs, it's important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable the sash with a rope. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to find replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose with a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on each piece. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you don't have an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. 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. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.