Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. If you catch these issues early you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can become damaged or degraded in 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 longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the Window Repair's brand and the glass 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 the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and window repair cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window repair near me sashes can wear out over time and use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. 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 then open it to see if this solves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely the sash balance. You will need to remove the window sash to access the hardware.

Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash.

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 address this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

In order to make these sash repairs it is essential to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin 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 in position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you've got may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb level. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each piece. 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 chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and attach it as described in the previous step. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They're not costly and easy to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights might be required to keep it in an open position.