Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching these issues in the early stages, before they become too much.
The sash is an inside frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts, as well as 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 width and height so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash and set it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should be buried inside 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, take it off by hand or using a putty knife.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could also use for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once the putty has fully cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage and the result could be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if this solves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely the sash balance. It is necessary remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with very little effort, however, this can be difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific window sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy costs.
It is crucial to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag with a label.
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Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable sash by rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows 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 fail; therefore you may have to find replacements.
A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold 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. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.
Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be the correct size. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights that keeps the sashes level within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down 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 nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or moved. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.
With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in the previous step. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.