10 Window Sash Repairs Tips All Experts Recommend

Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they may become damaged or degraded as time passes because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and Sash Window Repair keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass window repair or on the aluminum spacer 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 its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. After the putty has completely cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage, and the result can be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off 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 a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new Sash Window Repair (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you to position the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable the sash with a rope. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to find replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done through tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be different sizes than what you require. After the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.

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

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to feel less stiff.

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

It is best to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Depending on the dimensions and sash window repair shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.