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Window Sash Repairs

window repair near sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for many years. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (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 you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty knife.

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

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need remove the window sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed with very little effort, but this can be a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may 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 find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off to let you see the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You could employ a hammer and chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It's important to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on each piece. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and fix it using the step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and nail or Window Repairs screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.