Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching the issues in the early stages, before they become too much.
The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will show 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 will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to elements and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their ropes which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.
When the sash is clean and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully cure it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel and then open it to see if this fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close without effort, but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash.
If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly once more and save homeowners money on their energy bills.
It is important to have the tools you need before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and put 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, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable window sash using rope. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a replacement that fits correctly. window repairs near me will also need a new piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallets.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be the correct size. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. 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 ensure it stays in place when it is opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel 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. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads from their grooves. It's important to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.
With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They're not expensive and are easy to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.
