Window Sash Repairs Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching problems early on before they become out of control. The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash. Weather Stripping Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows. Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches. Then, take it off and set it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, and then remove it manually or using a putty knife. After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. window repairs are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also replace them with scrap wood. After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry at least one day. After the putty has completely cure it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look. Sash Hardware The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to the hardware. Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting 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 the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3). Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills. It is essential to have the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and store it in an labelled bag. Sash Weights Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable window sash using rope. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners. A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord. Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes 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. After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done through tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings. After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight has been installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments. Sash Cords Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened. To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or relocated. You might be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before starting any work. Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the small parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it may require oiling if it seems stiff. With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage. Unless you've bought 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 these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.
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