Window Sash Repairs Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on future repairs. The sash is an internal frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do simple repairs to sash. Weather Stripping Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows. The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's 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 height and width to find new weather stripping that matches. Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty knife. After the sash is cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber. After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry at least one day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look. Sash Hardware The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel then open it to see if this solves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware. Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This could be caused by a variety of factors, including a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating. If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3). Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy costs. To complete these sash repairs it is essential to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag with a label. Sash Weights Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable sash by a rope. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners. A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord. Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the small-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 area loose with a mallet. Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is usually done through tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings. When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be a different size than what you require. 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 adjustment. Sash Cords Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened. To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or relocated. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work. Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the tiny parting beads from their grooves. It is essential to be patient as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it might require oil if it feels stiff. Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in Step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage. It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not costly and are easy to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.
window repairs
