10 Window Sash Repairs Tips All Experts Recommend

Window Sash Repairs
Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early on, before they become out of control.
The sash is an inside frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for years. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove window repair from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.
After the sash is cleared, you can replace parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer 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 day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage and the result could be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's good to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If the issue persists it's likely the sash balance. You will need to take off the window sash in order to access the hardware.
Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't glazed. This issue can be due to a variety of factors, including an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. Many times just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy costs.
It is important to have the tools you require before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable the sash with rope. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallets.
Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. 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 window repair have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than the one you need. Once the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail 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 attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. It may be possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the small parting beads out of their grooves. It's important to take your time as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.