5 Window Sash Repairs Projects That Work For Any Budget Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. You can save future repair costs by catching these issues early, before they become too much.

The sash is an inside frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for many years. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Fortunately, window repair Harrow can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time 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 the sash. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.

Next, remove the sash and place it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.

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

After removing the stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully dried it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't covered with. This can be due to various reasons, including a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy costs.

To make these repairs to sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.

It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallets.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to let you see the inner workings of the frame.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights could be a different size than what you require. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding 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 level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep 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 in and need to be removed. It is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. It is important to take your time because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each component. The sash should move freely, however it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and secure it in Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.