10 Window Sash Repairs That Are Unexpected
Window Sash Repairs
Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on future repairs.
The sash is an inside frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.
The first step to sash window repairs (linked webpage) is addressing weather stripping, window repairs which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it by hand or with a putty knife.
Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can also use 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 to the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully cure and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out with time and use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access this hardware.
The ideal situation is for window repair near me sashes to move open and shut with minimal effort but this is a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. Many times, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly and save homeowners money on their energy bills.
To make these sash repairs, it's important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back into place correctly when you're 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. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to find replacements.
It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.
After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to let you view the inside of the frame.
Once 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 new. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you've got may not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows, a cord or chain is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords could break, window repairs making it difficult to raise the window repair. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. You could employ a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.
After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed and it's worth your time here. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on each component. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
Unless you've bought an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights might be required to keep it open.