Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues in the early stages before they get out of hand.
The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find replacement weather stripping to match.
Then, remove the sash and place it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If window repair near me has been double-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should be buried within the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty blade.
Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access this hardware.
Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't covered with. This issue can 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 are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.
It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to place the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.
It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.
After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood which can be removed to let you see the inner workings of the frame.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be a different size than what you require. After the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these chains can become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place 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 repositioned. You could employ a hammer and chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. It's important to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
Measure the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in the previous step. You can employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.