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10 Healthy Habits To Use Window Sash Repairs
Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching these problems early, you can save money on future repairs.

The sash is an inside frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple repairs to sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they may become damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.

The first step for repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.

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

Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing Resource parting stop and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry at least a day. After the putty has completely cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if this solves the issue. If the issue continues it's likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.

Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't coated. This problem can be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly and save homeowners money on their energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools you need before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to position the channel in the right position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to find replacements.

It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose with a mallet.

After the sash is released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is usually done via a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood which can be removed to let you see the inner workings of the frame.

Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights may be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and must be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to remove them with a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.


After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is essential to take your time, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each component. The sash should move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.

Read More: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/basingstoke-windowrepair/