Window Sash Repairs
Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching problems in the early stages, before they become too much.
The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or degrade in time due to exposure to elements and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
The first step for sash window repair s is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and let it dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash to access the hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly covered with. This issue could be caused by various reasons such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy bills.
To complete these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to put the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable the sash with rope. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.
It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes used 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 gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be the right size. After the new weight has been installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords may 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 hold it in place when it is opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or repositioned. You could use a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small partsing beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and are easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.