15 Inspiring Facts About Window Sash Repairs That You Never Knew

Window Sash Repairs


Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an inside frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can become damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, take it off and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then remove it manually or with a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use scrap wood.

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 the compound using a putty tool and let it dry at least a day. After the putty has completely cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of factors, including the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and general lack of energy efficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable the sash with a rope. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some 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 hold the parts together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose with a mallet.

After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.

When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be of the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time these cords can 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 place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or relocated. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to the components. The sash should move freely, however it may need some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They're not costly and easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on window repair of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.

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Pub: 07 Feb 2024 08:07 UTC
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