Window Sash Repairs
Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching the issues in the early stages, before they become too much.
The sash is an internal frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to do simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can become damaged or degrade in time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width to find new weather stripping that matches.
Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to take off 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 using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then remove it manually or with a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use scrap wood.
After removing the stopper and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry at least one day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out over time and use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If the problem persists it's likely the sash balance. You will need to remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.
Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular sash.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.
To make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to search for replacements.
It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or a mallet.
After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. This is usually done via an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords may 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 hold it in place when opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or relocated. window repair Gillingham may be possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny parting beads from 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 still in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it may require oil if it feels stiff.
Measure the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain, and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely 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. They're not expensive and simple to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.