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 repairs in the future.
The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years when they are maintained properly. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It's on both the frame and sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash and place it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty blade.
After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use scrap wood.
After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel then open it to see if that solves the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash to access the hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This issue can be due to many factors, including a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners cash on energy costs.
To complete these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off 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 to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to search for replacements.
It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. window repairs will also require a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first because the weights you've got may not be of the right size. After the new weight has been installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these chains may become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the small parting beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed and it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each piece. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, though it may require oil if it feels stiff.
Determine the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
Unless you've bought an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.