Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years if they are properly maintained. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.
Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.
When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. When the putty is fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel then open it to see if this fixes the problem. If the issue persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.
Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This could be caused by many factors that include the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy costs.
To complete these repairs to sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to put the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and place it in a labelled bag.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable the sash with a rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to locate replacements.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want 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 new weights to the cord.
Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. window repairs can be separated by using a knife and a mallet.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. 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 opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed into and must be removed. You might be able to employ a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, although it may require oiling if it seems stiff.
With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It's best to leave the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.
