Window Sash Repairs Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. By catching these problems early you will save money on future repairs. The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do simple sash repairs. Weather Stripping Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they may become damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows. The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height, so you can find new weather stripping that matches. Next, remove the sash and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the old weather stripping at the corners, and then remove it 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 wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use scrap wood. After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance. Sash Hardware The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If window repairs having difficulty opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash to access this hardware. The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with minimal effort however, this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This can be due to a variety of factors such as a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating. If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed 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). Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills. To complete these sash repairs, it's important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag that is labeled. Sash Weights Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using rope. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to search for replacements. A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back It is therefore important to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord. Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet. Once the sash has been released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings. Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights could be different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment. Sash Cords In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb level. Over time, these chains can get damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in position when it is opened. To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or moved. You could use a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work. Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called tie rails) out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around freely, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff. With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord, and then fix it using the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage. Unless you've bought an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and are easy to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.
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