Window Sash Repairs
Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. If you catch these issues early you will save money on future repairs.
The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, can last for many years. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can get 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 see all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.
Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the stopper and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that solves the issue. If the issue persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.
Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular sash.
If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
window repair , particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy bills.
It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to put the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable window sash using a rope. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.
Once the sash is freed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is 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 may not be the right size. After the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.
The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. It's important to take your time because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each piece. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
Determine the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and fix it using Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash open. 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.