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Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time, sash window repair due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by determining your window's 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 that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then remove it manually or using a putty knife.

After the sash is cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stops and cutting 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, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports 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. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repairing double glazed windows this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to access this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close 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 issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, Sash window Repair you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and general lack of energy efficiency. Many times just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you to place the channel in the right location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to find replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash Window repair pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. You could use a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the tiny parting beads from their grooves. It's important to take your time, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on the components. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash open. Based on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.