How Do You Know If Youre Ready For Window Sash Repairs

Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching these issues early, before they become too much.
The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for a long time. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. window repairs can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. To fix it, start 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 height and width so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.
Then, you can 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, you must remove the ropes and weights that should be buried within the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty blade.
After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could 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 on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. After it has fully dried then 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 holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's important to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if that resolves the issue. If the problem persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.
Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't covered with. This issue could be caused by a number of factors, including insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for a particular sash.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.
To make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all of 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 assist you in getting the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable sash by rope. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to find replacements.
It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.
Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed with the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood which can be removed so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you have may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow 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 within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when 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 require removal. It is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as 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 a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. window repair are not expensive and are easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.