15 Inspiring Facts About Window Sash Repairs The Words You've Never Learned
Window Sash Repairs
Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues in the early stages before they get out of hand.
The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to do simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, can last for a long time. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
The first step in repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.
Next, 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 have to take off the weights and their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty blade.
Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use scrap wood.
After removing the stopper and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out with time and 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 usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if it resolves the issue. If the issue continues it's most likely the sash balance. You will need to remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.
Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for the particular window sash.
If window repairs near me on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and an overall inefficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners cash on energy costs.
In order to make these repairs to sash it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable window sash using a rope. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to locate replacements.
It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.
Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood 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 of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be different in size from what you require. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes level in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and must be removed or repositioned. It is possible to take them out 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. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.
Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain, and then attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it open.