This Is A Guide To Window Sash Repairs In 2023

Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is an inside frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they may become damaged or degraded over time because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass window repair's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with the putty blade.

After the sash is cleared, you can install 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 could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife and 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 a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if this solves the issue. If not, Sash Window Repair the issue is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be due to many factors such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to find replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or a mallet.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be cut off so that you can view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be the correct size. After the new weight has been installed, thread a 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 double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window repair. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. It may be possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out and it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each component. The sash should be able move freely now, but it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

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

If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash window repair weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.