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Window Sash Repairs Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching these issues early before they become too much. The sash is an internal frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will show you how to make several easy repairs to your sash. Weather Stripping Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows. Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing sash windows. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches. Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should be buried within the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade. After the sash is cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers 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 parting stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look. Sash Hardware The hardware that holds 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 thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if this fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need to remove the window sash to access the hardware. Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for the specific sash. If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3). Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy bills. To make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you to position the channel in the right location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and place it in a bag with a label. Sash Weights Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to search for replacements. It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh 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 using mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet. After the sash is removed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame. Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have might not be of the right size. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments. Sash Cords In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards 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 typically fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work. After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called “tie rails”) out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on each piece. double glazing Harrow should move freely now, but it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff. With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord, and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage. It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it in an open position.