Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching these issues early before they become too much.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (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, remove the sash and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty blade.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window repair trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. Once the putty has fully cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if that solves the issue. If the issue persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to remove the window repairs sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with very little effort, but this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a number of things, such as the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and a general inefficiency. In many cases, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to sash it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to put the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to search for replacements.

It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done via a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and varietyconcrete.com will keep it in its position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out and it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or wikisenior.es hammer and then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, 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 at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. 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 opened. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.