Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they may become damaged or degraded as time passes due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and sash. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the window replacement brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height, so you can find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace these 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 stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry at least a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access this hardware.

Ideally, RepairMyWindowsAndDoors window sashes should swing open and closed without effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be due to various reasons that include the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and a general inefficiency. Many times, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and put it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to find replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.

After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be of the right size. After the new weight has been installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, RepairMyWindowsAndDoors attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its position when it is opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It may be possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is important to be patient as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

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

If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.