Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. If you catch these issues early you will save money on future repairs.
The sash is an internal frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should be buried inside the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry at least one day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash to access this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with minimal effort but this is an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of factors, including insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly and save homeowners money on their energy bills.
To make these repairs to sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable sash by a rope. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to find replacements.
It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also need a new piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect 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 are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and a mallet.
After the sash is removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed to let you see the inner workings of the frame.
After window repairs have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what you require. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when it is opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and require removal. You could use a hammer or chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be snipped out and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it may require oil if it feels stiff.
With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. They're not expensive and are easy to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.