Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time if they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded as time passes due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance longer than 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 the sash. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double glazing repairs-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. They 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 trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.

window repair; news, sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly covered with. This issue can be due to a variety of factors such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, unbolt 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 an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable window sash using a rope. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and window repair then tapping the mortised section loose using a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be of the right size. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and must be removed. You might 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.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It is important to be patient, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, Window Repair and then take out the wood pegs attached to each component. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, although it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord, and then fix it using the step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.