15 Unexpected Facts About Window Sash Repairs That You Didn't Know About
Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly 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 inside frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform several simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, remove the sash and place it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty knife.
After the sash is cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least one day. Once the putty has fully cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from age and use, and the result can be a window or door that won't open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut with minimal effort however, this can be an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This could be caused by various reasons, including the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure 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, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and an overall inefficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you to position the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and store it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable sash by rope. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to locate a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallets.
After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be ripped off to let you see the inner workings of the frame.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you 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. These are usually installed by screws or nails and must 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 before starting any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the small partsing beads out of their grooves. It is important to take your time as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.
Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut window repairs or chain, and then fix it using the step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not costly and simple to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.