8 Tips To Increase Your Window Sash Repairs Game

Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an inside frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.

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

After the sash is cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and let it dry at least a day. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage and the result could be a door or window repairs that won't open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash to access this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, but this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a labeled bag.

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 iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to find replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallets.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. First, window repairs weigh the sash, as the weights you have might not be of the right size. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards 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 usually screwed or nailed into and require removal. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each component. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.

Measure 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 cord or chain and fix it using the previous step. You can either employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They are not expensive and simple to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.