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What Window Sash Repairs Is Your Next Big Obsession
Window Sash Repairs

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.

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

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.

Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

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

Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute a scrap piece of wood.


After removing the stopper and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry at least a day. When the putty is fully cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If click through the up coming article persists it's most likely the sash balance. You will need to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort but this can be an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

To make these sash repairs it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. 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 into the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable sash by a rope. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.

A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. First, weigh the sash because the weights you have may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of old double-hung windows, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. It may be possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.

Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it using the step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.

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