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 either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.
The first step in sash window repair s is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, take it off and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty knife.
When the sash is clean and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also use with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access this hardware.
Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of things, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific sash.
If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy bills.
To complete these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to position the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually 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 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 windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallet.
After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be different sizes than what is needed. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or relocated. You could employ a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.
After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. It's important to be patient as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on the components. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.
With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.