Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform several simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can become damaged or degraded with 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 longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find replacement weather stripping to match.
Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.
Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use scrap wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if that solves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed without effort, but this is difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be due to various reasons such as a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy go to these guys ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.
It is important to have the tools you need before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back 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. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and place it in a bag that is labeled.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable window sash using rope. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.
Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights may be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.
window repair
In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb level. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.
The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and must be removed. 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 removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small parting beads from their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on the components. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it may require oil if it feels stiff.
With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain, and then attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Depending on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.
