Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on future repairs.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for years. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

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

Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch upvc window repairs trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could also use with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with very little effort, however, this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address 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 was screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools needed before you start. 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 remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to locate replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

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

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can take off 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 the correct size. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb level. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or moved. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on each component. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

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

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it open.