10 Window Sash Repairs Tips All Experts Recommend

Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. You can save future repair costs by catching these issues in the early stages, before they become out of control.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty knife.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch upvc window repairs trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least one day. After the putty has completely cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out with time and use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.

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

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is centered in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will make it easier to position the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable the sash with rope. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallets.

Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood which can be removed so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights could be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will 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 typically fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. You could use a hammer and chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be prised free and it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each piece. The sash should be able move freely, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and fix it using the previous step. You can employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.