Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching the issues early on before they become out of control.

The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden upvc window repair sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.

After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully dried and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of factors, including lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows especially in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy costs.

In order to make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and place it in a labelled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be cut off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not expensive and are easy to install if purchased 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 to keep it open.