Window Sash Repairs Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future. The sash is an inside frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do easy repairs to your sash. Weather Stripping Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows. Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original. Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty knife. After the sash is cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute for a scrap piece of lumber. After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry at least a day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance. Sash Hardware The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access the hardware. Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed with very little effort, but this is difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This could be caused by many factors, including an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating. If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If window repairs near me is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3). Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs. To make these repairs to the 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 get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag. Sash Weights Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable the sash with rope. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to search for replacements. It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord. Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet. After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done via an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed to let you observe the inner workings of the frame. After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments. Sash Cords In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. 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 usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work. After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the small parting beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be snipped out and it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on each piece. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff. Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage. If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and simple to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.
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