Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems in the early stages, before they get out of hand.
The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for many years. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.
The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.
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 is double-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty blade.
When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cure it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that won't open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If the problem persists, it is most likely the sash balance. You will need to take off the window sash in order to access the hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly coated. This can be due to many factors such as an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix 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 has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.
In order to make these repairs to sash it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash, and then remove 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 a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to find replacements.
It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and a mallet.
After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be different sizes than what you require. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these chains can get damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when it is opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or repositioned. You could use a hammer or chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the small parting beads from their grooves. It is important to be patient because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.
Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They're not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.