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This Is The History Of Window Sash Repairs In 10 Milestones
Window Sash Repairs

Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching problems early on before they become out of control.

The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty 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 could cause drafts if worn or loose. 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, take the sash off and mark its width and height, so you can find replacement weather stripping to match.

Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their ropes which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then remove it manually or with a putty knife.

Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.

After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel then open it to see if it solves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to this hardware.

Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly covered with. This issue could be caused by a number of factors, including insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt 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, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy costs.


To make these sash repairs it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the right place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove double glazing window repair , and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to find a new one that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights may be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight has been installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over windows repairs near me , 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 keep it in place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on the components. The sash should be able move freely, however it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

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

Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.

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