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10 Healthy Habits To Use Window Sash Repairs
Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching problems in the early stages, before they become out of control.

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

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can become damaged or degraded as time passes due to exposure to elements and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

Then, remove the sash and place it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After find more information have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with the putty blade.

When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also replace them with scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then open it to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to access this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't covered with. This issue could be caused by a number of things, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the particular window sash.


If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).

Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. Many times, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.

To complete these sash repairs it is essential to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you to place the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable the sash with a rope. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.

It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood which can be removed to let you see the inner workings of the frame.

After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.

To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You might be able to employ a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before 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 using the chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in the previous step. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They are not expensive and simple to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.

Read More: https://www.openlearning.com/u/turanmackay-s5rau2/blog/WhyWindowSashRepairsIsHarderThanYouImagine