Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues early on, before they get out of hand.

The sash is an interior frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they can become damaged or degraded as time passes because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for 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 damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin by determining your window's 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, remove the sash and mark its height and width to find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be due to many factors that include an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will help you get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable the sash with a rope. They provide counterbalance that allows the window repair to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to find replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or a mallet.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have might not be of the right size. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain connected to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. It may be possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working 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 because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

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

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not costly and simple to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.