Window Sash Repairs Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on repairs in the future. The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to sash. Weather Stripping Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows. The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches. Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty blade. After the sash is cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces 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. However, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood. After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look. Sash Hardware The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use and the result could be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if it resolves the problem. If the issue continues it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware. Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for the particular window sash. If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3). Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy bills. In order to make these sash repairs, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to place the channel in the right location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label. Sash Weights Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners. A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights the sash cord. Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets. After the sash is removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame. Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string to allow 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 of the jamb level. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep 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 typically nailed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work. After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. It is important to be patient because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to feel less stiff. Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain, and then fix it using the step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage. It is best to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.
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