What Is Window Sash Repairs And Why Is Everyone Speakin About It

Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early before they become too much.
The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.
The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.
Next, remove the sash and set it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as 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 from the old sash by hand or with a putty knife.
Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stopper and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cured and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be due to various reasons, including a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and general inefficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy costs.
To complete these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to place the channel in the correct location after you've completed. 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 medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable window sash using rope. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and a mallet.
Once window repairs is freed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. First, weigh the sash because the weights you have may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when it is opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. It may be possible to remove them with a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on the components. The sash should be able move freely now, but it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain, and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They're not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.