Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching problems early, before they become out of control.

The sash is an inside frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for a long time. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause 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). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

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

After the sash is cleared, you can install 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 could also use scrap wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. When the putty is fully dried it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if this solves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to access this hardware.

The ideal situation is for Window repair sashes to be able to open and close with minimal effort but this is an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This could be caused by various reasons that include a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

To make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be cut off to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what is needed. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down 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 nailed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in the previous step. You can employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not costly and easy to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it open.