It Is Also A Guide To Window Sash Repairs In 2023

Window Sash Repairs
Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early before they become out of control.
The sash is an internal frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time if they are properly maintained. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is 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. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it manually or using a putty blade.
Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can also use for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and allow it to 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 new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out over time and use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If the issue continues, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to take off the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with minimal effort but this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of things, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular sash.
If the hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy costs.
It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable window sash using rope. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to search for replacements.
It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs 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 used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose with a mallet.
Once the sash is freed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be the correct size. Once the new weight has been installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or relocated. It may be possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed and it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. window repairs should now be able to move the sash around freely, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.
Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and simple to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.