Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years when they are maintained properly. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

The first step to lock repair sash windows is to address weather stripping. It’s found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and glass repairs manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass window repair 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, take the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you’ll need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry at least a day. When it’s completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel then open it to see if this fixes the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance and you’ll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn’t properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that’s opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the frame’s opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and a general inefficiency. Many times just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

To make these repairs to the sash, it’s important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on the correct position after you’ve finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and store it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs – my webpage – are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose using a mallet.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood that can be ripped off so that you can view the inside of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what you require. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes in balance in the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. You could use a hammer and chisel to remove them but it’s best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called “tie rails”) out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It’s important to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around freely, although it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

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

It’s best to leave the original weights if you’ve purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It’s not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they’ll be easy to install once you’ve got the sash open. Based on the size of your window one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.