A StepByStep Guide To Window Sash Repairs From Start To Finish

Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems in the early stages before they get out of hand.
The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty knife.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with scrap wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once the putty has fully cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close without effort, but this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the specific window sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy bills.
It is essential to have the tools you need before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to place the channel in the correct place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to find a new one that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. 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. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallets.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be of the right size. After the new weight has been installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, but only leave 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 level within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. 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 attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. You could employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. It is important to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each piece. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it might require some lubrication 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 in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in Step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.
If window repair haven't purchased an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash open. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it in an open position.