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Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching problems early on, before they get out of hand.

The sash is an inside frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to sash window Repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or degrade in time because of 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 a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass window repair's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, sash window repair you could also use for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry at least a day. When the putty is fully dried and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's good to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue persists it's most likely the sash balance. It is necessary remove the window sash to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed without effort, but this is difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable sash by rope. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be ripped off so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

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

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. It may be possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around freely, although it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the size of your window one or two sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.