10 Healthy Habits For Window Sash Repairs

Window Sash Repairs
Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching the issues early on, before they become too much.
The sash is an inside frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for many years. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.
Next, remove the sash and place it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute 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 then let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need 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 be able to open and close without effort, but this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be due to a variety of factors, including a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in 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 attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many cases just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy costs.
To complete these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag that is labeled.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to find replacements.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. upvc windows repair of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallet.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the 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 installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore 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 typically fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or moved. You could use a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the small partsing beads out of their grooves. It is essential to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each component. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, although it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.