10 Window Sash Repairs That Are Unexpected
Window Sash Repairs
Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching these problems early, you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is an internal frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.
The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the glass 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 to find replacement weather stripping to match.
Then, remove the sash and place it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double glazed window repairs-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and their ropes which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty knife.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After the putty has completely cured it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut with minimal effort but this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be due to many factors, including an absence of maintenance or a mismatched 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 directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy bills.
In order to make these repairs to sash it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a hidden cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore, Window Repairs you may need to find replacements.
It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.
After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time these cords can 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.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and require removal. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.
With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.
