Why Window Sash Repairs Youll Use As Your Next Big Obsession

Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems in the early stages, before they become too much.
The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate over time because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.
The first step to repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width 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, take out the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners, and then take it off by hand or with a putty knife.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can also use with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stopper and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least one day. After the putty has completely cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If the problem persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary 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 with minimal effort however, this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This can be due to various reasons such as an absence of maintenance or an unmatched 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 that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy costs.
It is essential to have the tools you need before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. 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, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable the sash with rope. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed with 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 essential to remove first 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 area loose using mallets.
After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be cut off to let you view the inside of the frame.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Weigh the sash first, as 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, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in place when opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. agree with this is essential to take your time, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.
With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended 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 simple to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it open.