Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching these issues early on, before they become too much.
The sash is an interior frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several simple repairs to sash.Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for a long time. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, take it off and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty blade.
Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry for at least one day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to this hardware.
Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This problem can be due to a variety of factors that include a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.
It is crucial to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable window sash using rope. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.
It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose using a mallet.
After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight you used and replace it. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you have might not be the right size. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in position when it is opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or moved. It is possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be removed and it's worth your time here. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on each piece. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it may require oil if it feels stiff.
Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in the previous step. 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 weights for balancing in place. 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 open. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.
