Window Sash Repairs Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on future repairs. The sash is an interior frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash. Weather Stripping Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows. window repair stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match. Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty blade. Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber. After removing the stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look. Sash Hardware The hardware that supports the 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 a good idea to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware. The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with minimal effort but this is difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a variety of things, such as insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the particular sash. If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3). Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows especially in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills. It is essential to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you to position the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label. Sash Weights Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected by a rope to the movable 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 usually neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to locate replacements. It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. 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 windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet. After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings. After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments. Sash Cords In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these chains can become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down 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 nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or relocated. It may be possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work. After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called tie rails) out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. It is essential to be patient because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on the components. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, though it may require oil if it feels stiff. With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage. If you don't have an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.
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