Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. By catching these problems early you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is an internal frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years when they are maintained properly. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find new weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash and set it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty blade.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two 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 scrap wood.
After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. After the putty has completely dried and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access this hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut with minimal effort but this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be due to many factors, including a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Many times just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and save homeowners money on their energy bills.
It is crucial to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you to place 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, and chains that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable the sash with a rope. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.
It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallet.
After the sash is 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. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be cut off so that you can view the inside of the frame.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be a different size than the one you need. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these cords could 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 it is opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the tiny parting beads from their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, although it may require oil if it feels stiff.
Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut window repair near me or chain, and then secure it in the 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 an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.