Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching problems early, before they become too much.

The sash is an internal frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they can be damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (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 get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

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

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window repair near me sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage and the result could be a window repair near me or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if this fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, but this can be an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This 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 sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using a rope. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to locate replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off so that you can view the inside of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have might not be of the right size. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and require removal. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. It's important to take your time as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. 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 haven't purchased a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash opened. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.