10 Healthy Window Sash Repairs Habits
Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. If you catch these issues early you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is an interior frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time if they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. However, 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 in repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. To fix it, start 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 purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double glazed window repairs-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also use for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry at least a day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to access the hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with very little effort, but this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This could be caused by various reasons such as a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need 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 general lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.
It is crucial to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will make it easier to position the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable the sash with rope. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet.
After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
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 the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. 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.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, repairer to pry the small partsing beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed and it's worth your time. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each piece. The sash should move freely, however it might require some lubrication to feel less stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and attach it as described in the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.
Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.
