Window Sash Repairs
Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching the issues in the early stages before they become out of control.
The sash is an inside frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.
Next, remove the sash and place it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty knife.
When the sash is clean and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry at least one day. After the putty has completely cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if this fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to take off the window sash to access the hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with very little effort, but this is 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 things, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular sash.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.
It is essential to have the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable window sash using a rope. These weights function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to find replacements.
It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. The majority of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were 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 section loose using a mallet.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be the correct size. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb level. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.
window repair to replace cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it in the step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.