Five Window Sash Repairs Lessons From The Pros
Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early on before they get out of hand.
The sash is an internal frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years when they are maintained properly. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.
The first step in repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, remove it manually or with a putty knife.
When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. window repair are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry at least a day. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's good to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut with minimal effort however, this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for the specific sash.
If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In many cases, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy costs.
To make these sash repairs it is important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable window sash using rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.
Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.
After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be cut off so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be different in size from the one you need. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when it is 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 must be removed or relocated. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.
After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the small 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, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should move freely, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.
Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is best to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They're not costly and are easy to install if you purchase them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it open.