10 Window Sash Repairs That Are Unexpected

Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early on before they become out of control.

The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home and, 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. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It's on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (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 you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes, which 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, and then remove it by hand 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 prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife and glazing let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to access the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This problem can be due to various reasons such as a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on the window repairs begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. Many times just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To make these sash repairs it is important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window repairs near me sash and decrease the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable sash by a rope. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to search for replacements.

It is difficult to recover 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 of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow 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 in a balanced manner. Over time, these chains can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and require removal. It may be possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

Determine the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord, and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not costly and simple to install if you purchase them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window one or two sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.