Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early, before they become too much.
The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.
The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. 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 to find new weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash has a
double glazing repair-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then remove it manually or with a putty knife.
Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use scrap wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and
window Doctor let it dry at least one day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could lead to the
Window Doctor or door that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access this hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be due to many factors such as a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is centered in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. Many times just a few easy fixes 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 essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. They are counterbalancers,
window Doctor allowing the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to locate replacements.
A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.
After the sash is removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood which can be removed so that you can view the inside of the frame.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its position when it is opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.
After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be prised free and it's worth your time here. 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 freely now, but it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord, and then secure it in the step 6 above.