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The Best Window Sash Repairs Is Gurus. Three Things
Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching these issues early on, before they become out of control.

The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the first 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 worn or loose. 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). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners, and then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.

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

After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry at least one day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. 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 age and use and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with minimal effort but this can be difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of factors, including lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy bills.

To make these sash repairs it is essential to have all the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to position the channel in the correct place when you are finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a labeled bag.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to find replacements.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to locate a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the 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 these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.

After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood which can be removed to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you have may not be the correct size. Once the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords


Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these chains can become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or moved. You might be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing 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 pull the small parting beads from their grooves. It is important to take your time as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Measure the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord, and then attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on Going On this site and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.

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