A How-To Guide For Window Sash Repairs From Start To Finish
Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching problems early, before they get out of hand.
The sash is an internal frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.
The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for the glass (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 find a replacement weather stripping that matches.
Next, remove the sash and set it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners, then take it off by hand or with a putty knife.
Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you can also use with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from age and use, and the result can be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide repair window out to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue continues it's most likely the sash balance. You'll need to take off the window sash in order to reach this hardware.
Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This problem can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for a particular sash.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. Many times, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy bills.
To complete these sash repairs it is important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. 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 put 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 the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be 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 large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or a mallet.
After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these cords can become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. 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 take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny partsing beads out of 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 remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.
Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash open. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.