Flor Doll asked 3 months ago
Window Sash Repairs
Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.
The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it’s loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer’s date (etched on the glass’s corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash is double glazed window repairs-hung, you’ll also need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you’ve taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners, and then take it off by hand or with a putty knife.
Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could result in the window repairs or door that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if that fixes the issue. If the problem persists it’s likely to be due to the sash’s balance. It is necessary remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort but this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn’t properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific window sash.
If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
To make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the correct position after you’ve finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and store it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you’ll need to find a new one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or a mallet.
After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be different sizes than the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
Most old double glazed window repairs near Me-hung windows have a cord or chain connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called “tie rails”) out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out which is why it’s worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on each component. You should be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it using the step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
If you haven’t purchased an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it’s best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.