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Window Sash Repairs Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on future repairs. The sash is an inside frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash. Weather Stripping Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows. The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height to find replacement weather stripping to match. Then, take it off and set it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should be buried inside the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty blade. When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard ½-inch by ¾-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood. After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look. Sash Hardware The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could 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 quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel then open it to see if this fixes the problem. 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. Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific sash. If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3). Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. Many times just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly and save homeowners money on energy bills. It is important to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled. 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, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. window repair are made of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to search for replacements. It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord. Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets. After the sash has been removed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done through tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be cut off so that you can view the inside of the frame. After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be of the right size. After the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow future adjustments. Sash Cords Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes in balance in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its position when it is opened. The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work. After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed and it's worth your time here. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to the components. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff. Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain, and then secure it in the previous step. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage. If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.