Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems in the early stages before they become out of control.
The sash is an inside frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for a long time. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.
The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find replacement weather stripping to match.
Then, take it off and place it on a table so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with 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 prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. After the putty has completely dried it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then open it to see if this solves the issue. If the issue persists it's most likely the sash balance. You will need to take off the window sash to reach this hardware.
Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't coated. This issue can be caused by a number of factors, including lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.
If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many cases just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy bills.
In order to make these sash repairs it is important 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 help you to place the channel in the right location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose using a mallet.
After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be cut off to let you see the inner workings of the frame.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights could be different sizes than what is needed. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when it is opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and must be removed or relocated. You could use a hammer or chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the small parting beads from their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.
With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They are not expensive and easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights might be required to keep it in an open position.