Why Window Sash Repairs Is Harder Than You Imagine
Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an interior frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to do easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, remove the sash and set it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with the putty blade.
After the sash is cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and 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 a day. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if this solves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash to access this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close without effort, however, this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This could be caused by various reasons that include the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy bills.
To make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all of the necessary tools in place 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 into the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to find replacements.
It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.
Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose using a mallet.
After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you have might not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb level. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After window repair has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.
With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and are easy to install if you purchase them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.