What Is Window Sash Repairs And How To Utilize It

Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues in the early stages before they become too much.
The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years if they are properly maintained. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (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 get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried inside the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it manually or with a putty knife.
Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry for at least one day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's most likely the sash balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed without effort, but this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for a particular sash.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many cases just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on their energy bills.
In order to make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will help you get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable window sash using a rope. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to locate replacements.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose with mallets.
After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be different in size from what you require. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes in balance in the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when it is opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or repositioned. window repair could use 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 to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It's important to be patient, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to the components. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, although it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and secure it in the step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
It is best to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.