Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching problems early, before they get out of hand.
The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, take it off and set it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.
Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried, 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 supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If the issue continues it's most likely the sash balance. You will need remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't covered with. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.
If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm 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 open and close due to hinges that are sagging and an overall inefficiency. In many cases, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on their energy bills.
To make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you to position the channel in the correct place when you are finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.
Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, but 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 or mallet.
Once the sash is freed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood which can be removed to let you view the inside of the frame.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you've got may not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its position 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 screwed or nailed into and require removal. It is possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the small parting beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be prised free and it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash around without difficulty, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.
Measure the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in the previous step. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on window repairs near me and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.