Window Sash Repairs
Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is an interior frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for a long time. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.
window repair stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, start 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). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the old weather stripping at the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty blade.
Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with scrap wood.
After removing the stopper and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry at least one day. When it's completely dried, 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 holds the window sashes can wear out over time and use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need remove the window sash to access the hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with minimal effort but this can be a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This could be caused by various reasons such as the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.
It is crucial to have the tools needed before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to place the channel in the right location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help 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 a rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.
It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.
After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or moved. It is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. It's important to be patient as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each component. You should be able to move the sash around freely, although it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.
Measure the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you hav
