10 Things Everyone Gets Wrong About Window Sash Repairs

Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. 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 carry out a few simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.
The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, begin 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, remove the sash and mark its height and width to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, remove the sash and place it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.
Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing read the article parting stop and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least one day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a modern look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from age and use and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue persists, it is most likely the sash balance. It is necessary to remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of factors, including insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular sash.
If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.
To make these sash repairs it is essential to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). read the article will help you get the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable sash by rope. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a new one that fits properly. 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.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallet.
After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood which can be removed to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.
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 to ensure that the weights you have may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb balanced. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash 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 typically installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or relocated. It may be possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads from their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.
Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.