Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues in the early stages before they become out of control.
The sash is an inside frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to elements and wear and tear. 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.
Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height to find new weather stripping that matches.
Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty knife.
Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once the putty has fully dried and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash to access this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect 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 address this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners cash on energy costs.
It is essential to have the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable the sash with rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to search for replacements.
A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.
After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and access the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be different in size from what you require. After the new weight is installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. 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 window repairs Bow , the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and must be removed or repositioned. You could use a hammer and chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the narrow parting beads from their grooves. It is important to be patient, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on the components. The sash should be able move freely, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in the previous step. You can use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it open.