Five Window Sash Repairs Projects To Use For Any Budget
Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early, before they become out of control.
The sash is an interior frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for years. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to elements and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.
The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height, so you can find replacement weather stripping to match.
Then, take it off and set it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry at least a day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then open it to see if that solves the issue. If the issue continues it's most likely the sash balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of things, such as the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.
If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.
To make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window repair sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable sash by a rope. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, window repairs sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.
A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh 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 old wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or a mallet.
After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood that can be cut off so that you can view the inside of the frame.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords can get damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its position when it is opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them with a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each component. You should now be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.
With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it in the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.
