Window Sash Repairs Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching problems in the early stages, before they become too much. The sash is an inside frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform easy repairs to your sash. Weather Stripping Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows. The first step for repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (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 get 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, remove the weights using their ropes that should be buried inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it manually or using a putty blade. Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them 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 stopper for the parting and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance. Sash Hardware The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to this hardware. Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific window sash. If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that 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 need to remove the hinge arm 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, old windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on their energy bills. To make these repairs to sash it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and store it in a labeled bag. Sash Weights Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to locate replacements. It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also need a new piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord. Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets. Once the sash is freed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to 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 interior workings. After window repair has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights could be a different size than the one you need. After the new weight is installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments. Sash Cords Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes balanced within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened. To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You could employ a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work. Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as tie rails) out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on the components. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff. With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage. If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.
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