8 Tips To Enhance Your Window Sash Repairs Game

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

The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to elements and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double glazing-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry at least one day. When the putty is fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could result in the window or door 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 trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with minimal effort but this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be due to various reasons such as a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable sash by a rope. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential 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 through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done via an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. First, weigh the sash because the weights you have may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb level. Over time, these chains can become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and require removal. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the small parting beads from their grooves. It is important to be patient because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely now, but it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in the previous step. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it open.