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Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. By catching these problems early you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it manually or with a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window repair trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening the sash, sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed with very little effort, however, this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to the sash, it's 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 allow you to position the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable window sash using rope. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to find replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to locate a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece 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 windows made of older wood. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood which can be removed to let you view the inside of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be different sizes than what you require. Once the new weight has been installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these cords can get damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it 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 screwed or nailed in and require removal. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each component. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, although it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in the previous step. You can 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 old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window one or two sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.