Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

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

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

After the sash is cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. 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 stopper and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use and the result could be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to the hardware.

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

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is essential to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to position the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is usually done through tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is 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 remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double glazed window repairs-hung windows, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps 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 cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when opened.

The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and require removal. You could use a hammer or chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

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

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They're not expensive and simple to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.