The Top Window Sash Repairs Experts Are Doing Three Things

Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
The first step for sash window repair s is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for the glass (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 get replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash and set it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside 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 using a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least one day. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue continues it's most likely the sash balance. You will need remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with minimal effort however, this can be difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by various reasons such as an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy costs.
To make these sash repairs, it's important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back into position correctly 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 putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to find replacements.
It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.
After the sash is released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is usually done via a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood which can be removed to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. 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
Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.
The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and require removal. It is possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. It's important to take your time, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each component. You should be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.
With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.
It's best to leave the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it open.