The History Of Window Sash Repairs In 10 Milestones

Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues early, before they get out of hand.
The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years if they are properly maintained. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.
Next, remove the sash and set it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using the putty blade.
After the sash has been cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.
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 out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully dried it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access the hardware.
Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.
It is crucial to have the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to position the channel in the right location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of 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. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you've got may not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these chains can get damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or repositioned. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.
With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in the previous step. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, but 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. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.