Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an interior frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they can be damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and window repair 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 can cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or Window Repair on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash 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.

When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch upvc window repair trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use scrap wood.

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

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that won't open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then open it to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to access this hardware.

Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This can be due to various reasons such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

To complete these sash repairs it is important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to place the channel in the right position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose with mallets.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these chains can get damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its position when it is 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 relocated. It may be possible to remove them with a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting 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 using flat bar or chisel. It's important to be patient because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window repair you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.