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Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching these issues early on, before they become out of control.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.

After the sash is cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once the putty has fully dried and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. 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 issue. If the issue persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to remove the window sash to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort however, this can be an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This can be due to many factors, including an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window repair. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools you need before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to position the channel in the right position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable the sash with rope. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length 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 holding the components together. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. First, weigh the sash because the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and require removal. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to the components. The sash should move freely, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

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

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.