Window Sash Repairs
Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.
After the sash is cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry at least a day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second 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 age and use, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary remove the window sash 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-to-rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of things, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for the particular window sash.
If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners cash on energy costs.
To make these sash repairs it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and 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 labeled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using a rope. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to locate replacements.
It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallets.
After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be the right size. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.
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In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash 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 screwed or nailed into and must be removed. You could use a hammer or chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working 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 in, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove 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 open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in the previous step. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.