Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues in the early stages, before they become out of control.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash has a double glazing Colchester-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then remove it manually or using a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting 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 a day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out with time and 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 simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut with minimal effort however, this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by many factors, including the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. Many times just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Hammers and uPVC pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash because the weights you have may not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. It may be possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is essential to be patient as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, though it may require oil if it feels stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it open.