Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can become damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty knife.
After the sash is cleared, you can replace 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 replace them with scrap wood.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth window repair out using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If the problem persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.
Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by many factors such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and general inefficiency. Many times, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy bills.
It is essential to have the tools you require before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to place the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Take off 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 energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable window sash using a rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be closed and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to find replacements.
It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet.
After the sash has been removed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood which can be removed so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be different in size from what is needed. After the new weight is installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb level. Over time, these chains can get damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when opened.
The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be prised free which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
Measure the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and simple to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.