How To Tell If Youre Ready For Window Sash Repairs

Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an interior frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will show you how to do simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty much longer than 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 sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, take it off and set it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once 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, remove it manually or with a putty knife.
Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the stopper and trimming it to length and 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. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from age and use, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel then open it to see if this fixes the problem. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash to access the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with very little effort, but this is difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be due to a variety of factors such as a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. Many times, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.
To complete these sash repairs it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to put the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to locate replacements.
A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a replacement that fits properly. Recommended Internet page will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.
Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights may be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. upvc window repairs keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. It's important to take your time because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each component. The sash should move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in the previous step. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.