10 Ways To Create Your Window Sash Repairs Empire

Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching these issues in the early stages, before they become out of control.
The sash is an inside frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to do easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they can become damaged or degrade over time because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.
Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should be buried inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that divide the 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 scrap wood.
After removing the stopper and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If the problem persists it's likely the sash balance. You'll need to remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with minimal effort but this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of factors, including lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for a particular sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix 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 fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy costs.
In order to make these repairs to sash it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable sash by a rope. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to find replacements.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to find a replacement that is suitable for the. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. 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 part loose with mallets.
Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to let you see the inner workings of the frame.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights which keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints using 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 will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It's best to leave the original weights if you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. They're not expensive and easy to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it open.