An Guide To Window Sash Repairs In 2023
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 upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.
The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start by determining your window Repair's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, take it off and set it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using the putty blade.
After the sash has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace them 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 stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from age and use 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 you're having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access the hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut with very little effort, but this is difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This could be caused by various reasons that include a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
To make these sash repairs it is essential to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window repair sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and attached by 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 usually neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to locate replacements.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a new one that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto 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 large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose using a mallet.
Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have might not be the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in position when it is opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and window Repair must be removed or relocated. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. It's important to take your time because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
Determine the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.
