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Window Sash Repairs Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early, before they become too much. The sash is an interior frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform simple repairs to sash. Weather Stripping Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they can be damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows. Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's 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 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). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can get replacement weather stripping that matches. Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade. Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use standard ½-inch by ¾-inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can 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 it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance. Sash Hardware The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely the sash balance. You'll need to take off the window sash in order to reach this hardware. Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash. If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within 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 (Photo 3). Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs. It is important to have the tools needed before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to position the channel in the right position after you've finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag that is labeled. Sash Weights Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to find replacements. A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to find a new one that fits correctly. 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. Mortise and Tenon joints are 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 are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet. After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings. Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you have may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow future adjustments. Sash Cords Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes level within the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in position when it is opened. To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to remove them with a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work. After double glazing repairs Bethnal Green has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small partsing beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, although it might require oil if it feels stiff. With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain, and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage. It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They're 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 might be required to keep it open.