How Much Do Window Sash Repairs Experts Earn? Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years if they are properly maintained. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with the putty blade.

After the sash is cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports 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. It's important to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed without effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for the particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

To make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to place the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights


No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. window repairs consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been 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've got may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise 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 usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or relocated. It is possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After you have removed 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 with a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely, however it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

Determine the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord, and then fix it using 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 is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.