Window Sash Repairs
Check the windows sashes regularly for any 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 can move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and Upvc window repair maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.
The first step in repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it’s worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer’s date (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash and place it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also use for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. When it’s completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It’s a good idea to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If a sash isn’t easy to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if this solves the issue. If the issue persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash’s balance. It is necessary remove the window repair sash in order to access the hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut without effort, but this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn’t properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of factors, including lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the particular window sash.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash’s to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame’s opening and take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you’ll need to remove 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, windows that are old, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy costs.
In order to make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will make it easier to put the channel in the correct location after you’ve completed. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.
It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you’ll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you’ll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights could be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb level. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the upvc Window repair. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. It is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. It’s important to take your time because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each piece. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
Unless you’ve bought an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it’s recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They’re not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.