8 Tips To Increase Your Window Sash Repairs Game

Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early on, before they get out of hand.

The sash is an internal frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for a long time. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair double glazed windows experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.

After the sash is cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least one day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can 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 very simple and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the problem is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed with minimal effort but this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Many times, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly once more and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

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

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable sash by rope. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and window sash repairs shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. First, weigh the sash because the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain connected to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords can get damaged and render it impossible to raise windows repairs. A new sash cable will give you 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. These are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. It's important to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Measure the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and fix it using the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They are not expensive and easy to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.