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Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. By catching these problems early you can save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an interior frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple sash repairs.
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Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.
The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, take it off and set it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with the putty blade.
After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also use a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need remove the window sash to access the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut with very little effort, however, this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This can be due to various reasons, including an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix 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 secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy costs.
In order to make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to search for replacements.
It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed with the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were 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 mallets.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. First, weigh the sash because the weights you have might not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place 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 nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. It is possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. It is essential to take your time as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each piece. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord, and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights could be needed to keep it open.