7 Practical Tips For Making The Greatest Use Of Your Window Sash Repairs
Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can save future repair costs by catching the issues early before they get out of hand.
The sash is an inside frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they may become damaged or degraded as time passes due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.
Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use scrap wood.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the problem. If the issue persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary to remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular window 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 resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.
It is crucial to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable the sash with rope. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to search for replacements.
A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.
Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights could be different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, window repair can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when it is opened.
The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate 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 with an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.
After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on each component. The sash should move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
Measure the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.