Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for many years. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
The first step for sash window repair s is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, take it off and set it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it manually or with a putty knife.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use scrap wood.
After removing the stopper and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. 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 this solves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to remove the window sash to access the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close without effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem could be caused by many factors, including an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
It is essential to have the tools you need before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.
After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these chains can get damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in position 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 into and need to be removed. It may be possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each component. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication to feel less stiff.
Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in Step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.