Window Sash Repairs 101 The Ultimate Guide For Beginners

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 vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.
The first step to sash window repair s is addressing weather stripping. glass window repair 's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find new weather stripping that matches.
Then, take it off and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty knife.
Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you can also use with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out over time and use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the problem. If the issue persists it's most likely the sash balance. You'll need to take off the window sash in order to access the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort however, this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by many factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.
It is important to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to find replacements.
It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or a mallet.
After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. This is usually done through tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.
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. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be of the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when it is opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and require removal. You could employ a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be prised free which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around freely, although it might require oiling if it seems stiff.
Determine the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not costly and simple to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.