Window Sash Repairs
Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an internal frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degrade in time due to exposure to the 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 much longer than newer replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.
Next, remove the sash and place it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with minimal effort but this is a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be due to various reasons such as the lack 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 slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and a general inefficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy costs.
To complete these repairs to sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to put the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and store it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to search for replacements.
It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and a mallet.
Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you've got may not be the correct size. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave window repair near me at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.
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 within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when it is opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and must be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you have the sash open. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.