Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early before they become too much.
The sash is an inside frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple sash repairs.
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 become damaged or degraded over time because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.
The first step in repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. 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). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, take window repair off and place it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty knife.
Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate 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 a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If the issue persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary to remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of things, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.
If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy costs.
To make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to position the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.
A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.
Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose with mallets.
After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling a small hole 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 are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what you require. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then attach the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position when opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed into and must be removed. You could use a hammer and chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. It's important to be patient because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
Determine the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it in an open position.