Window Sash Repairs
Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching problems in the early stages before they become too much.
The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (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 that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with the putty blade.
When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces 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, but you can also use scrap wood.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated 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 can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue continues, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This can be due to a variety of factors such as the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
It is essential to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads 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 place it in a bag with a label.
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 composed of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and then 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 recover It is therefore important to locate a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. window repairs of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallets.
Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be a different size than what you require. Once the new weight has been installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult 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 to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. It is possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to take your time, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should move freely, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less 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 fix it as described in the previous step. You can use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They are not expensive and are easy to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights might be required to keep it open.