Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early, before they become too much.
The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degrade in time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. Start 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, remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, remove window repair from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should be buried within the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to remove the old weather stripping at the corners, and then take it off by hand or using a putty blade.
Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers 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 stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and let it dry at least a day. After the putty has completely cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then open it to see if it fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary remove the window sash to access the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed without effort, however, this can be a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be due to a variety of factors such as a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy costs.
It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to place the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and place it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable window sash using a rope. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to locate replacements.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back It is therefore important to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.
After the sash is removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights may be a different size than what you require. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you 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. They are typically fixed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. You could use a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. It is important to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to the components. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.
Determine the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and simple to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.