Your Family Will Thank You For Getting This Window Sash Repairs

Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you can save money on future repairs.


The sash is an interior frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple sash repair.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time if they are properly maintained. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. To fix it, start 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 that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, window repairs near me can substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if that solves the issue. If the issue persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to take off the window sash to reach this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with minimal effort but this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific window sash.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure 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 loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

In order to make these repairs to sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and store it in an labelled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using a rope. These weights act 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 turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to search for replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a replacement that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and a mallet.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights may be different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or relocated. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It's important to be patient because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on the components. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain, and then attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.

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Pub: 07 Feb 2024 11:20 UTC
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