What Can A Weekly Window Sash Repairs Project Can Change Your Life

Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues in the early stages, before they become too much.
The sash is an inside frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that open. window repairs will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find new weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with the putty blade.
When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. When the putty is fully cure it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If the problem persists it's likely the sash balance. You'll need to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't covered with. This issue can be due to a variety of factors such as an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
In order to make these repairs to sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the right place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable sash by a rope. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have 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 new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.
After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights may be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight has been installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. It may be possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. It's important to be patient because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord, and then attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not expensive and are easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights might be required to keep it in an open position.