What Experts In The Field Want You To Know

Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform several simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degraded as time passes because of exposure to the elements and wear 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 for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and 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 of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if that fixes the issue. If the issue persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to take off the window sash to reach this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut with very little effort, but this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This can be due to many factors that include the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on their energy bills.
In order to make these sash repairs it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and store it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.
It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. 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. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose with a mallet.
After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is usually done via a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be ripped off so that you can view the inside of the frame.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be a different size than the one you need. Once the new weight has been installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these cords could 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 place when opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and require removal. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.
After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the small parting beads from their grooves. It is essential to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on the components. The sash should move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication to feel less stiff.
With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size of your window one or two sash weights could be needed to keep it open.