Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of 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 can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's 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 width and height so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate 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 parting stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and allow it to dry for at least one day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, however, this can be an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This can be due to a variety of factors such as 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 land on the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.
It is important to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will make it easier to place the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.
It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose with a mallet.
After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes level within the jamb. As window repairs , these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position when opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or moved. It is possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.
After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord, and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.