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Window Sash Repairs Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on future repairs. The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform easy repairs to your sash. Weather Stripping Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows. Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original. Then, remove the sash and set it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it by hand or using a putty knife. When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard ½-inch by ¾-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute a scrap piece of wood. After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look. Sash Hardware The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use 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 or repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware. The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with minimal effort however, this can be a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This can be due to many factors that include the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating. If the hinges on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and take it off. 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). Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and general inefficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy bills. In double glazing East Grinstead to make these sash repairs it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and store it in an bag that is labeled. Sash Weights Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable sash by rope. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to locate replacements. It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord. Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets. After the sash has been removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel which can be removed to allow you to view the inside of the frame. After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you've got may not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. 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 In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb level. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in 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 screwed or nailed into and must be removed. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work. Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as “tie rails”) out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be snipped out and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, although it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff. With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage. It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.