Five Window Sash Repairs Lessons From The Pros

window repair Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you can save money on future repairs.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.

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

After removing the stopper and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use, and the result can be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel then open it to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to access the hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This could be caused by many factors such as an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you've got may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb level. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and require removal. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each component. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain 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 fix it as described in the previous step. You can employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and simple to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.