Window Sash Repairs Tips From The Best In The Industry

Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues in the early stages, before they become too much.
The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
The first step for repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then take it off by hand or with a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also replace them with scrap wood.
After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. Once the putty has fully cure, 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 time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that solves the issue. If the issue continues it's most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need remove the window sash to access the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed without effort, but this is an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the particular window sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit 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 opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy costs.
It is important to have the tools needed before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to position the channel in the proper 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 hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labelled bag.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. window repair is essential to remove first 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 access the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you've got may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these cords can get damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small parting beads from their grooves. It is essential to take your time because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each component. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.
Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in the previous step. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
It's best to leave the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.