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This Is The History Of Window Sash Repairs In 10 Milestones
Window Sash Repairs

Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues early, before they get out of hand.

The sash is an internal frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they can be damaged or degraded as time passes due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. Start by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty knife.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. After the putty has completely dried and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash to access the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors such as a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy costs.

It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable sash by a rope. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to locate replacements.

A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.


Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.

Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood which can be removed to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords can get damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize window repairs near me , or chisel to pull the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on each piece. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.

Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in the previous step. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.

If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and are easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.

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