10 Unexpected Window Sash Repairs Tips
Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching the issues early before they become too much.
The sash is an interior frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.
The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Start 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). Then, remove the sash and Window Repairs mark its height and width so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.
Then, take it off and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and let it dry at least a day. When the putty is fully cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to access this hardware.
Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't coated. This issue could be caused by a number of things, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for a particular sash.
If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy costs.
In order to make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to position the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window repairs near me sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to find replacements.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to find a new one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallet.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood which can be removed so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be the right size. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can attach the string to your 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, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb level. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and require removal. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time here. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on the components. The sash should be able to move freely, however it might require some lubrication 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 in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window repairs near me two or three sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.