A Guide To Window Sash Repairs From Beginning To End
window repair Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early on before they become out of control.
The sash is an internal frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.
The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.
Next, remove the sash and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use a piece of 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 the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry for at least one day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.
Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular sash.
If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.
It is crucial to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will make it easier to put the channel in the right position after you've finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable the sash with a rope. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled 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 new one that is suitable for the. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose with mallets.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be cut off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be of the right size. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes level within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when it is opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and must be removed. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. It is essential to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, 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/chain and then fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not costly and easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.