A Look At The Myths And Facts Behind Window Sash Repairs

Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues in the early stages, before they become too much.

The sash is an inside frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping





Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

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

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with the putty blade.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide 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 parting stop and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After the putty has completely cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's likely the sash balance. You will need remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed without effort, however, this can be an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you to put the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

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

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to find a replacement that is suitable for the. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once straight from the source is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. You could employ a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. It is essential to be patient because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it in the step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.