Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues early before they get out of hand.
The sash is an interior frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, and then remove it manually or using a putty blade.
After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. Once the putty has fully dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a modern look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut with very little effort, but this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular window sash.
If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix window repairs , first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
To complete these sash repairs it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag that is labeled.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.
A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallets.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be the correct size. After the new weight has been installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and must be removed. You could employ a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It's important to take your time, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around freely, although it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.
Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in the previous step. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash opened. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.