5 Window Sash Repairs Projects That Work For Any Budget

Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early before they become too much.

The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. 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 keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and let it dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then open it to see if that resolves the issue. If the issue persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash in order to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut with minimal effort but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This problem could be caused by various reasons such as a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address 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 was attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash Window Repair weights to the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by 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 weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight has been installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double glazed window repairs-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these cords can become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and require removal. You might be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed, sash Window repair but they can be snipped out and it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it may require oil if it feels stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. 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. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.