5 Window Sash Repairs Projects For Any Budget

Window Sash Repairs
Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on future repairs.
The sash is an interior frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, remove the sash and place it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty knife.
When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry at least one day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to access this hardware.
Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly glazed. This problem could be caused by various reasons, including an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy bills.
To complete these sash repairs it is important to have all of 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 help you to put the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Soften this page hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and a mallet.
Once the sash is freed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off to let you view the inside of the frame.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb level. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in place when it is opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each component. The sash should move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash opened. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.