Window Sash Repairs
Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an interior frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for a long time. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty blade.
After the sash is cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with 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 it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue continues it's likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with minimal effort however, this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This could be caused by a variety of factors such as an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy bills.
To make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.
It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. window repair 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 section loose using mallets.
After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling a small hole at 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 is removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be of the right size. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb level. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when it is 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 require removal. It is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.
After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads from 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 is still in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should move freely now, but it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
With the sash in an open position 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 fix it as described in the previous step. You can either use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.