Window Sash Repairs
Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.
The first step in repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height to find new weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut off 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 wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After the putty has completely dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, however, this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a number of factors, including lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.
If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in window repairs (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
It is important to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you to position the channel in the right position after you've finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labelled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallet.
After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be different in size from the one you need. After the new weight is installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in position when it is opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. It is possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.
With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.