Window Sash Repairs
Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on future repairs.
Richmond double glazing is the interior framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
The first step in repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (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 new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, remove the sash and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or using the putty blade.
After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash to access the hardware.
Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a variety of things, such as lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for the particular window sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy costs.
It is essential to have the tools you require before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and store it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.
Older wood windows 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 these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallet.
Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
Once 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. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down 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. These are usually screwed or nailed into and must be removed. You could use a hammer or chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to 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 small partsing beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be removed and it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.
With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain, and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
Unless you've bought a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it in an open position.