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Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early, before they become too much.

The sash is an interior frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they can be damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. 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. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length after which, 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 one day. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's likely that the sash balance is off. You will need remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

The ideal situation is for upvc window repairs near me sashes to be able to open and close without effort, however, this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem could be caused by various reasons that include the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools needed before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and Window Repairs store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable the sash with rope. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to find replacements.

It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be of the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb level. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position 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 and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be snipped out and it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each component. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and secure it in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. 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 unlocked. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.