10 Window Sash Repairs Tips All Experts Recommend
Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for a long time. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cure it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.
Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular sash.
If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install 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 or close. In window repairs near me , a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy bills.
In order to make these sash repairs it is essential to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag that is labeled.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable sash by a rope. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to search for replacements.
A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.
After the sash is released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you've got may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position when opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It may be possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It is important to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each component. The sash should move freely, however it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain, and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They're not costly and easy to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.