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Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, 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 set it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two 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 parting stops and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry for at least one day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access this hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly covered with. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to place the channel in the right position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and place it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable sash by rope. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window repair near me without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to find replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallet.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done through tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb level. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down 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 screwed or nailed in and require removal. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads from their grooves. It's important to be patient because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to the components. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it in the step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you have the sash open. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.