What Experts On Window Sash Repairs Want You To Learn

Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an internal frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate in time because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
The first step to repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (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 replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should be buried inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty blade.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also use with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stopper and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry at least one day. When the putty is fully cure it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to access 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 meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the particular sash.
If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the oppo site corner (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy bills.
In order to make these sash repairs it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to search for replacements.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to locate a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.
Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose with mallets.
After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights could be a different size than the one you need. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb level. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult 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.
The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. It is possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on the components. window repairs should move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.