What Is Window Sash Repairs And How To Utilize It

Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is the 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
Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.
The first step to repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, remove it manually or with a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes 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 your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't coated. This problem can be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific 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 opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and remove it. If window repairs is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many cases just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy costs.
It is essential to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and put it in a labelled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.
After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is usually done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first because the weights you've got may not be of the right size. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when it is opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the tiny parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.
With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord 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.
If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not costly and simple to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.