Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. If you catch these issues early you will save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an inside frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, can last for years. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate as time passes because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.
The first step for repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. Start by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, take it off and place it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty blade.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you can also use with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully cured it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports 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. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel and then open it to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to access the hardware.
Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This could be caused by various reasons, including an absence of maintenance or an unmatched 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 in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.
In order to make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. 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 reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable the sash with a rope. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to locate replacements.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.
Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs 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 made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.
After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Make sure window repairs weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights may be different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. You could use a hammer or chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on the components. The sash should move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley located 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.
Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and easy to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.