A How-To Guide For Window Sash Repairs From Beginning To End
Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues early on before they become out of control.
The sash is an inside frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, can last for a long time. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary 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 could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the stopper and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it solves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely the sash balance. You'll need to remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.
Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't glazed. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the particular window sash.
If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy costs.
To complete these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will help you to place the channel in the right location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable the sash with rope. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to find replacements.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to locate a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.
After the sash is removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood which can be removed so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights which keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when it is opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed into and must be removed. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. window repair should move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.
With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and then secure it in the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
Unless you've bought an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.