Why Window Sash Repairs Will Be Your Next Big Obsession

Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching problems early, before they become out of control.
The sash is an internal frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and can last many years if they are properly maintained. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, take it off and place it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.
After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it resolves the issue. If the problem persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need remove the window sash to reach this hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't glazed. This issue can be due to many factors, including a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy bills.
In order to make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking window repair of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable sash by rope. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to find replacements.
It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length 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 with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallets.
Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of every 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 has been removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you have might not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb level. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when it is opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. look these up are typically attached by nails or screws and must be removed. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. It is essential to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then fix 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.
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. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.