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Window Sash Repairs Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future. The sash is an internal frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple sash repair. Weather Stripping Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows. Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches. Then, remove the sash and set it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty blade. After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard ½-inch by ¾ inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute with a scrap piece of wood. After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully dried and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look. Sash Hardware The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to the hardware. Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with minimal effort but this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash. If the hinge arms of a window are beginning 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 remedy the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3). Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and general inefficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly and save homeowners money on energy costs. It is important to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag. Sash Weights No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to locate replacements. A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord. Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose with a mallet. After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel 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 has been removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments. Sash Cords In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when it is opened. The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and must be removed. You could employ a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting 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 partsing beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each component. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require oil if it feels stiff. Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However double glazing Orpington are less likely to cause damage. It is recommended to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not expensive and simple to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.