Window Sash Repairs
Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues in the early stages before they become too much.
The sash is an interior frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for years. However, they may become damaged or degrade as time passes because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.
The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it’s damaged or is loose. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (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 replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double glazing windows repairs-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When it’s completely dried, 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 holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a window or upvc door repair that isn’t able to open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then open it to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance and you’ll have to take off the sash to access this hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with minimal effort but this is an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn’t properly coated. This issue could be caused by various reasons such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner that’s in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame’s opening and remove it. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy bills.
It is crucial to have the tools you require before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back into the correct position after you’ve finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to locate replacements.
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 need a new piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the components together. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.
Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through tiny holes at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you’ll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In most old double glazing repairers-hung window, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when it is opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and must be removed. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them, but it’s always better to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.
After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. It’s important to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to each component. The sash should move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication to feel less stiff.
With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash window Repair slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it using the step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
Unless you’ve bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They’re not expensive and simple to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights might be required to keep it open.