10 Unexpected Window Sash Repairs Tips

Window Sash Repairs
Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their ropes which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing window repairs with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty blade.
Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use scrap wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry at least a day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then open it to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access this hardware.
Window sashes should 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-to-rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash.
If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy costs.
It is essential to have the tools you require before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). window repairs near me will assist you in getting the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable sash by a rope. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.
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 sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of 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 removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that 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 old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights may be different in size from what you require. After the new weight is installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.
more helpful hints -hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, 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 opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or repositioned. You might be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.
After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. It is essential to take your time as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around freely, although it may require oiling if it seems stiff.
With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They are not expensive and are easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.