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Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an internal frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for years. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear. However, sash window repair repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and place it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty blade.

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

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length then 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. After the putty has completely dried it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use, and sash window repair the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's good to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then open it to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to remove 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 weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. Many times, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

To make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will make it easier to put the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.

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

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is usually done via an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you have may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In most old double glazed window repairs-hung window, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.

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

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. It's important to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights might be required to keep it open.