Window Sash Repairs 101The Ultimate Guide For Beginners

Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching the issues in the early stages, before they become too much.
The sash is an inside frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of 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 will last for many years if they are properly maintained. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.
Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry at least a day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage and the result could be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's good to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash to access the hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly coated. This can be due to many factors, including a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.
To complete these sash repairs it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to place the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Then, remove window repairs and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and place it in a bag that is labeled.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to find 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 need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.
Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights may be a different size than what you require. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. window repairs will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or repositioned. You could employ a hammer and chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be removed and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on the components. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.
Determine the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it using the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.