There Are Myths And Facts Behind Window Sash Repairs

Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early on, before they become out of control.
The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate as time passes because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width to find new weather stripping that matches.
Next, remove the sash and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using the putty blade.
After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. Recommended Web site are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry for at least one day. After the putty has completely cured it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to access the hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly covered with. This issue can be caused by a variety of things, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for the specific sash.
If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.
In order to make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you to place the channel in the right place when you are finished. 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 a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.
It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.
After the sash has been removed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. 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 interior workings.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb level. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in position when it is opened.
The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and must be removed. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.
After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small parting beads from their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.
With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It's best to leave the original weights if you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.