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Window Sash Repairs Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. If you catch these issues early you can save money on future repairs. The sash is an interior frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash. Weather Stripping Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can be damaged or degrade as time passes because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time 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 it's worn or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original. Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty knife. After the sash is cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers standard ½-inch by ¾-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can 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 on the bottom of the sash. window and door repair near me using a putty tool, and let it dry at least one day. Once the putty has fully dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated look. Sash Hardware The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if this fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to this hardware. Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly glazed. This issue can be due to various reasons such as an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating. If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3). Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs. It is important to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag. Sash Weights Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable sash by rope. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to locate replacements. A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord. Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using 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 gain access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings. When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be of the right size. After the new weight has been installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments. Sash Cords In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in position when it is opened. The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. It may be possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work. After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff. Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage. It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.