Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an internal frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It's on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty blade.
After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of 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 can also use scrap wood.
After removing the stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.
Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't covered with. This problem could be caused by many factors that include the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy costs.
To make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Remove go!! and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable sash by rope. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.
A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.
Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be of the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or relocated. It is possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads from their grooves. It is essential to be patient as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each component. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can use either 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 recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and simple to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.
