Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Next, remove the sash and set it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. 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 Repair trim from the lumberyard, but 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 over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry at least one day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if it resolves the issue. If the problem persists, it is most likely the sash balance. You will need to remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with minimal effort however, this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools needed before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to position the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable the sash with rope. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to find a replacement 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 onto the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallets.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights may be a different size than what you require. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then attach the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these chains can become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when 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. You could use a hammer or chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It is important to take your time as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each component. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, although it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it as described in the previous step. 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 have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it open.