What Is The Best Place To Research Window Sash Repairs Online Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. You can save future repair costs by catching problems early before they get out of hand.

The sash is an internal frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (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 get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash and set it on a table so you can access 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. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, and then take it off 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 that split the sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely dried it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.

Sash Hardware


The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This can 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 a sash is difficult to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with minimal effort but this is a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and an overall inefficiency. Many times, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you've got may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb level. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position when opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and require removal. You could use a hammer and chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It is essential to take your time as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each component. It should now be possible to move the sash around without difficulty, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it using the step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. window repair near me 's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.