Window Sash Repairs Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on future repairs. The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform several simple sash repair. Weather Stripping Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows. Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match. Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should be buried within the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, take it off by hand or with a putty knife. After the sash is cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also replace them with scrap wood. After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. When it's completely dried 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 holds the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's likely the sash balance. It is necessary remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware. Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed without effort, however, this can be an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash. If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3). Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and general inefficiency. window repairs can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy costs. It is crucial to have the tools you need before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag that is labeled. Sash Weights If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable the sash with a rope. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to locate replacements. It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord. Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet. Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to let you observe the inner workings of the frame. After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be different sizes than what is needed. After the new weight has been installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments. Sash Cords The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may 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 keep it in place when opened. To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or moved. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting 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. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each component. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff. With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage. It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. They're not costly and are easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.
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