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5 Window Sash Repairs Projects For Every Budget
Window Sash Repairs

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

The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

The first step to repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left 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 that split the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute a scrap piece of wood.

After removing repair double glazing window parting stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and let it dry at least one day. Once the putty has fully cured it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.

Sash Hardware


The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if it solves the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut without effort, but this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address 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 secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

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

In order to make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and place it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable the sash with rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to search for replacements.

It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. repair windows will also need an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and a mallet.

Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a 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 take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb balanced. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or relocated. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.

After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be prised free and it's worth your time here. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each piece. The sash should move freely, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.

With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.

Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not costly and are easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it open.

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