Why Everyone Is Talking About Window Sash Repairs Right Now

Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an interior frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to 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 can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cure and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window repairs sashes may wear out over time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with minimal effort however, this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors that include a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the correct place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and install then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to find replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be ripped off to let you view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be the correct size. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these chains may become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. You could use a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the small parting beads from their grooves. It's important to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each component. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and then fix it using the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but 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're not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.