Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching the issues early, before they become out of control.
The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they can be damaged or degrade as time passes because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and 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 as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, remove the sash and set it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried in the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with the putty blade.
After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. window repairs near me are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with scrap wood.
After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.
Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't properly coated. This can be due to many factors such as a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy costs.
It is essential to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will make it easier to place the channel in the correct place when you are finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable the sash with a rope. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window 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 the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. 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. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallets.
After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights which keeps the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. It's important to be patient because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on each component. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.
Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.