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Window Sash Repairs Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on future repairs. The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform simple repairs to sash. Weather Stripping Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows. The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner or on 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, remove the sash and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using the putty blade. Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard ½-inch by ¾-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use scrap wood. After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and let it dry at least a day. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance. Sash Hardware The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to this hardware. The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with very little effort, however, this can be an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash. If the hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3). Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and general inefficiency. In many cases just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy costs. It is important to have the tools you need before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag with a label. Sash Weights No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable the sash with a rope. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to find replacements. A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord. Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallets. Once the sash has been released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to view the inside of the frame. After double glazing repairs Dunstable has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string for future adjustments. Sash Cords In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb level. Over time, these chains can get damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened. The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. You could employ a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before commencing 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 tiny parting beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each piece. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to make it 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 fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage. It is recommended to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit to 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 may be needed to keep it in an open position.