It's The One Window Sash Repairs Trick Every Person Should Be Aware Of Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should be buried within the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners, then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. When the putty is fully dried it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.

Sash Hardware


The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's important to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue continues, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut without effort, but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by a variety of factors that include an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If window repair near me is fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.

To complete these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to place the channel in the right place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Take off 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 decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to locate replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these chains can become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.

After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.

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

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not costly and simple to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it open.