Window Sash Repairs Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early on, before they get out of hand. The sash is an internal frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform several simple repairs to sash. Weather Stripping Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows. Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original. Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using the putty blade. After the sash has been cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that split 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 replace them with a piece of scrap wood. After removing the parting stop and cutting 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 for at least 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 look. Sash Hardware The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's 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 must be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be due to a variety of factors such as a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating. If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address window repair , first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3). Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and general inefficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners cash on energy costs. To complete these sash repairs it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag with a label. Sash Weights If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable sash by a rope. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to locate replacements. It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also need an additional 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. Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet. After the sash is removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings. After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you've got may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments. Sash Cords In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time, these chains can get damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position when opened. The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or repositioned. It is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work. After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as tie rails) out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on the components. It should now be possible to move the sash around without difficulty, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff. Measure the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage. Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not costly and are easy to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it in an open position.
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