This Is A Guide To Window Sash Repairs In 2023

Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and pane mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching problems early before they get out of hand.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years when they are maintained properly. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (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 purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then open it to see if that solves the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to remove the window sash to reach this hardware.

The ideal situation is for upvc window repair sashes to be able to open and close without effort, but this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This can be due to many factors that include an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. 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).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and an overall lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will make it easier to position the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash and pane then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and place it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and pane attached by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to find replacements.

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

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. Most of them 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 utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallet.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights may be different sizes than the one you need. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these chains may become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. It may be possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. It is important to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, although it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.