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Window Sash Repairs Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on future repairs. The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple sash repair. Weather Stripping Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they may become damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows. The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take double glazing Caterham off and mark its width and height so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match. Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade. When the sash is clean and clean, you can put in the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard ½-inch by ¾-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use a piece of scrap wood. After removing the stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry at least one day. After the putty has completely cured 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 holds the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening a 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 most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to the hardware. Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut without effort, but this is difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem could be caused by a variety of factors that include an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating. If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3). Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and general lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs. It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a labeled bag. Sash Weights Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable the sash with rope. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to search for replacements. It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord. Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or a mallet. Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to allow you to view the inside of the frame. Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights could be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments. Sash Cords In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb level. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when opened. To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and must be removed. 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. After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as “tie rails”) out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each component. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff. With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage. It is recommended to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not expensive and simple to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.