Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. By catching these problems early you can save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an inside frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they can become damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.
The first step in repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty knife.
Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully cure and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it solves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.
Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly covered with. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors such as an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure 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, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
In order to make these sash repairs it is essential to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and place it in a labelled bag.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable sash by a rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.
A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to find a replacement that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallet.
Once the sash is freed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what you require. After the new weight is installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when opened.
To replace window repair , the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. It is possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. 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 be able to move the sash around freely, although it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.
With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and fix it using the step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.
Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.