Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. By catching these problems early, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is the interior window repairs framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window 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 height and width to find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, Window Repairs use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window repairs sashes may wear out over time and use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it fixes the problem. If the problem persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut with very little effort, however, this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be due to many factors that include a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In many cases just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

To make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you to position the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove 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 energy cost. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to locate replacements.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.

After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be ripped off to let you view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what you require. Once the new weight has been installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or relocated. It may be possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is important to be patient as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it might require oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and then fix it using the step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and are easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.