Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an inside frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they may become damaged or degraded over time because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair double glazing windows specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It's on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash was double glazing window repair-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could also use a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried and dried, Window Sash Repairs apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and Window Sash Repairs give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if it fixes the problem. If the issue persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't covered with. This problem could be caused by various reasons that include a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners cash on energy costs.

It is important 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 allow you to get the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to find replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first because the weights you've got may not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or relocated. You might be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each piece. You should be able to move the sash around freely, although it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

Measure the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.