Window Sash Repairs

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

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window repairs sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch upvc window repairs trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length after which, 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 at least a day. After the putty has completely cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage and the result could be a door or Window repair that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This issue can be due to various reasons such as a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

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 opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows especially in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. Many times, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to put the channel in the right position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window repair sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable the sash with a rope. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to locate replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, window repair a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside 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 prior to you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be different in size from what you require. Once the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when 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 require to be removed or relocated. It is possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it is 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 unlocked. Based on the size of your window repair two or three sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.