15 Startling Facts About Window Sash Repairs That You Never Knew

Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can save future repair costs by catching problems early, before they get out of hand.
The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.
The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.
Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to 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 replace them with a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. Once the putty has fully cured, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's good to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if it solves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access this hardware.
Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't covered with. This problem can be due to many factors such as an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinges on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. Many times, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy bills.
It is crucial to have the tools you need before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to place the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable window sash using a rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to locate replacements.
It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet.
After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights may be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when it is opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and must be removed. It may be possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on the components. The sash should be able move freely now, but it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on window repairs and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.