The Best Window Sash Repairs Its What Gurus Do Three Things

Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues in the early stages, before they become out of control.
The sash is an inside frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they can become damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the old weather stripping at the corners, and then take it off by hand or with a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use scrap wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length then 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. When the putty is fully cured, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to take off the window sash to reach this hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with very little effort, but this is difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of factors, including insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix 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 has been 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, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and a general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.
To make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and store it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce energy costs. 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 provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. Read the Full Write-up are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to search for replacements.
It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.
After the sash has been removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood which can be removed to allow you to view the inside of the frame.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights could be a different size than what you require. After the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. It may be possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be removed and it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on the components. The sash should be able move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.
Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in the previous step. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.