Ten Things Everyone Misunderstands About The Word Window Sash Repairs

Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an interior frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to make several simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate as time passes because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.
After the sash is cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide 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 a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely dried it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a modern look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel and then open it to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed without effort, but this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This can be due to many factors such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy costs.
To complete these sash repairs, it's important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.
It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you've got may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its position when it is opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and require removal. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. It is important to take your time, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If click now is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each component. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.