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Window Sash Repairs: The History Of Window Sash Repairs In 10 Milestones
Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

The first step in repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, start by finding your window 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 size and width so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, take it off and set it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and their ropes which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.

After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. like this are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top 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 due to 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 repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue continues, it is most likely the sash balance. It is necessary to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't coated. This could be caused by a variety of factors such as an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.


If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to place the channel in the correct place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are large 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 gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be cut off so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight has been installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave upvc window repairs near me of space at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can 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. These are usually attached by nails or screws and require removal. It may be possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. It is important to take your time, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each component. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain 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 as described in the previous step. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.

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