10 Window Sash Repairs That Are Unexpected
Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early on, before they get out of hand.
The sash is an inside frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window replacement near me sashes add the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they can become damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, start by determining your window'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, remove the sash and mark its height and width to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, take it off and set it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty blade.
After the sash is cleared, you can install the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch Window Doctor trimming from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and 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 slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue continues it's most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need remove the window sash to access the hardware.
Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a variety of things, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the particular window sash.
If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many cases, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly again and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.
It is essential to have the tools you require before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable the sash with a rope. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.
It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century made use of 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 part loose using mallets.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and Window Doctor access the pockets for weights. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off to let you see the inner workings of the frame.
Once the sash is stopped 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 correct size. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when opened.
The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and must be removed or relocated. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to prise them off 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 using a chisel or flat bar. It is important to take your time as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.
With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord, and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can do this with nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
It's best to leave the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They're not expensive and easy to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.
