Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues in the early stages before they become too much.

The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other issues. 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 the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace them 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 trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the problem is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to access this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not 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 the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window repairs. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and general inefficiency. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

To complete these repairs to the sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable window sash using rope. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to locate replacements.

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

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed to let you view the inside of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail 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

In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each piece. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sash weights could be needed to keep it open.