10 Strategies To Build Your Window Sash Repairs Empire

Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching these issues early, before they get out of hand.

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and their ropes which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty blade.

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length, 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 at least a few days. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use, and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue continues it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need to take off the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly covered with. This issue could be caused by many factors that include a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove 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 especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to place the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Take window repairs near me off and then remove all hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights


Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable sash by rope. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to search for replacements.

It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb level. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. 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. These are usually screwed or nailed into and must be removed. It is possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. It is important to be patient, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in the previous step. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.

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Pub: 06 Feb 2024 22:27 UTC
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