10 Unexpected Window Sash Repairs Tips Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching the issues early on, before they become too much.

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they can be damaged or degraded as time passes due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, start 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 purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.

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

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry for at least one day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if it resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed without effort, but this can be an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be due to a variety of factors such as an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

To make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the right position after you've finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep the windows 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 cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to locate replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallet.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood which can be removed to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. First, weigh the sash because the weights you've got may not be the right size. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords


Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when it is opened.

The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or moved. window repairs near me could use a hammer or chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is important to be patient as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on each component. The sash should move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.