Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash and place it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty blade.
After the sash is cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these 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 stops and trimming them to the desired length then 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. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
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 door or window that won't open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If window repairs near me is difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access the hardware.
Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly covered with. This issue can be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the particular sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy bills.
In order to make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable window sash using rope. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of 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 that keep the parts together can be removed with the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or a mallet.
After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is usually done via tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights may be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb level. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. It may be possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It's important to take your time as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on the components. The sash should be able to move freely, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.
Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Based on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.