Window Sash Repairs Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on future repairs. The sash is an inside frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform several simple repairs to the sash. Weather Stripping Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for many years. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance much longer than 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. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original. Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade. After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these 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 after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and let it dry for at least one day. Once the putty has fully dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. window repairs 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 from age and use and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware. Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut with minimal effort but this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be due to many factors that include a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating. If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3). Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners cash on energy costs. It is essential to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will make it easier to place the channel in the right position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and place it in a bag that is labeled. Sash Weights No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable sash by a rope. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners. A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a new one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord. Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallets. Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at 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 remove the weight you used and replace it. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments. Sash Cords In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move 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. These are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work. After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called tie rails) out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each component. The sash should be able to move freely, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff. Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in the previous step. You can employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage. If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.
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