10 Things Everyone Makes Up About Window Sash Repairs
Window Sash Repairs
Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues in the early stages, before they become out of control.
The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing windows with sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by finding your window 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 width and height so you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, and then remove it manually or with a putty knife.
Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if this fixes the problem. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to this hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't coated. This problem can be caused by a number of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.
It is important 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 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 putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and store it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable sash by a rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to find a new one that fits properly. 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.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed with the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet.
Once window repair has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be a different size than the one you need. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when it is opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and must be removed or relocated. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each piece. The sash should be able move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.