5 Window Sash Repairs Lessons From Professionals
Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. By catching these problems early, you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is an internal frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they can become damaged or degraded in time because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (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 get replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, take it off and place it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the old weather stripping at the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty knife.
Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window repair near me trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry at least one day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from age and use, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's important to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue persists, it is most likely the sash balance. You will need to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.
Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't covered with. This issue can be due to various reasons that include a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then remove it from the window repairs. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Many times, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly again and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.
To complete these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (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 for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window repairs to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be different in size from what is needed. After the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in position when it is opened.
The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. It is possible to remove them with a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.
With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window repairs one or two sashweights might be required to keep it in an open position.