Window Sash Repairs 101 A Complete Guide For Beginners

Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can save future repair costs by catching the issues early before they become out of control.
The sash is an inside frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, can last for many years. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.
Next, remove the sash and set it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with the putty blade.
After the sash is cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that separate the 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 stopper and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry at least a day. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if it fixes the problem. If the issue persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with very little effort, but this can be difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for a particular sash.
If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy bills.
It is essential to have the tools you need before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable window sash using rope. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be 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 fits properly. You will also require a new piece 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. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and a mallet.
After the sash has been removed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be different in size from what you require. Once the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when opened.
Related Home Page to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and require removal. It may be possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is important to be patient, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is best to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you have the sash open. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.