Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching problems early on before they become out of control.
The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.
The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (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 find a replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as 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 using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the weather stripping from the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty knife.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace 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 use scrap wood.
After removing the stopper and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After the putty has completely cured it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. window repair will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to access this hardware.
Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for a particular window sash.
If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.
It is important to have the tools you need before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using rope. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
It's not easy 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 require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallets.
Once the sash is freed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have might not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and require removal. It is possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be prised free and it's worth your time here. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each component. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it may require oil if it feels stiff.
With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is best to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.