Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. By catching these problems early you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they can be damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as 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 width and height so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and 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 old weather stripping by hand or with a putty blade.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the stopper and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use and the result could be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close without effort, but this is an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem could be caused by various reasons, including an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy bills.
To make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to put the channel in the right position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag labeled.
window repair
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to search for replacements.
It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallets.
Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done via a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be different in size from what is needed. After the new weight is installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when it is opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each piece. You should now be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it may require oil if it feels stiff.
Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and fix it using the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.
Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.