Window Sash Repairs
Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching the issues early on before they become too much.
The sash is an internal frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will show you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years when they are maintained properly. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate over time due to exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.
window repair in repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width, so you can find replacement weather stripping to match.
Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty knife.
Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully dried and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to the hardware.
Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many cases just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on their energy bills.
To make these sash repairs it is essential to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable the sash with rope. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallets.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
Once 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. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string 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 level within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and must be removed or relocated. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to take your time as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely now, but 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 reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain, and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not expensive and simple to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.