Window Sash Repairs
Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is an interior frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width to find replacement weather stripping to match.
Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If window repairs near me has been double-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 weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty blade.
After the sash is cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these 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 at least a day. Once the putty has fully cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if this fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to the hardware.
Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This could be caused by various reasons, including an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and an overall inefficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy bills.
In order to make these repairs to sash it is important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require 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 that hold the parts together. The majority of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallets.
After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or moved. You could use a hammer or chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely, however it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
Measure the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and easy to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.