Window Sash Repairs
Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early, you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years when they are maintained properly. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find new weather stripping that matches.
Then, take it off and set it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.
When the sash is clean and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with scrap wood.
After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports 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 thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access the hardware.
Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.
If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy costs.
It is essential to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will help you get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Take off window repairs and store it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.
It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallets.
After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights could be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and must be removed or moved. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time here. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on each piece. The sash should be able move freely, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and secure it in the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and are easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.