Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching these issues in the early stages before they get out of hand.
The sash is an inside frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, window repairs can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows 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 you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. After the putty has completely cure it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to access this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort but this is difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be due to a variety of factors such as the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and a general lack of energy efficiency. Many times, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy bills.
It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will make it easier 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 that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and store it in an bag that is labeled.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using a rope. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and a mallet.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood which can be removed to let you see the inner workings of the frame.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be a different size than the one you need. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these chains can get damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position when opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed into and must be removed. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on the components. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may need 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 reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash open. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it in an open position.