Five Window Sash Repairs Lessons From Professionals

Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. If you catch these issues early you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an interior frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they can be damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the glass 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 to find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and set it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should be buried in the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it by hand or using a putty knife.

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

After removing the stopper for the parting 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 let it dry at least a day. When the putty is fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if it resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely the sash balance. It is necessary remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with minimal effort but this is a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be due to many factors such as a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your upvc window repairs sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable window sash using rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to find replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallets.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood which can be removed to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be the right size. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays 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 usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. It is possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing 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 using the chisel or flat bar. It's important to be patient as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and easy to install if you purchase them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.