5 Window Sash Repairs Lessons Learned From Professionals
Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. You can save future repair costs by catching problems in the early stages before they get out of hand.
The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance much longer than 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 brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it by hand or with a putty knife.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could also use with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if this solves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to access the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut with very little effort, but this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This could be caused by various reasons that include an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window repair are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve 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 attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.
In order to make these sash repairs it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Heat 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
Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to search for replacements.
It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and 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. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights could be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb level. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when it is opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and must be removed or relocated. It may be possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. It is important to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
With the sash open 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 cord or chain, and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.