10 Window Sash Repairs Tricks Experts Recommend

Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to do easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can become damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cured it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. 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 that fixes the problem. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to the hardware.

The ideal situation is for upvc window repair sashes to be able to open and close with very little effort, however, this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This could be caused by various reasons, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is essential to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to position the channel in the right place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable sash by a rope. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first because the weights you've got may not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or repositioned. It is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be removed and it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on each piece. The sash should move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights if you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not costly and simple to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.