Window Sash Repairs
Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early on before they become out of control.
The sash is an inside frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash and set it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at 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 divide the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry at least one day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue continues it's likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to take off the window sash in order to access the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with minimal effort however, this can be a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.
If the hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve 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 screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In many cases, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy bills.
It is important to have the tools you need before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off and then remove all 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 glue. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure 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 components together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallets.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel which can be removed so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when it is opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or repositioned. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the small partsing beads out of their grooves. It's important to be patient as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to the components. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They are not expensive and easy to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Based on window repairs near me and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.