What Are The Myths And Facts Behind Window Sash Repairs

Window Sash Repairs
Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded over time because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.
The first step in repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should be buried in the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the stopper and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that won't open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, but this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of things, such as insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for a particular window sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit 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 opening and then take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and general inefficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy bills.
To complete these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to place the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and place it in a bag that is labeled.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights the sash cord.
Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallets.
After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to let you see the inner workings of the frame.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. First, weigh the sash because the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb level. 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 upwards and downwards and keep it in position 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 will need to be removed or repositioned. window repair may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be snipped out 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 remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
Determine the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain, and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights might be required to keep it open.