Window Sash Repairs

window repairman sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an internal frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they may become damaged or degrade as time passes because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and 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 Window repair with the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or using the putty blade.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing or sash window repair fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if this fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with very little effort, however, this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and 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 next (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will make it easier to place the channel in the right location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a replacement that is suitable for the. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights could be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance in 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 keep it in position when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or moved. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be removed, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

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