15 Startling Facts About Window Sash Repairs That You Never Knew

Window Sash Repairs
Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying related website and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, remove the sash and place it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.
Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use scrap wood.
After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least one day. Once the putty has fully cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if this resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to take off the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut without effort, however, this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be due to various reasons, including a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy costs.
It is crucial to have the tools you require before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to find replacements.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to find a replacement that is suitable for the. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet.
After the sash has been removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords can become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays 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 repositioned. You could use a hammer or chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make upvc windows repair parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is important to be patient, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each piece. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require oiling if it seems 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 in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.
Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and are easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window one or two sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.