Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early on, before they get out of hand.
The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years if they are properly maintained. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and sash. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Next, remove the sash and set it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty knife.
When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and allow it to dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully cure, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes prone to wearing out from time and usage and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if it solves the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to access this hardware.
window repair should open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This can be due to many factors such as the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on their energy bills.
It is important to have the tools you require before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will make it easier to place the channel in the right position after you've finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable sash by rope. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to find replacements.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to find a new one that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed by 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 first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallets.
After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding 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 supports and keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in place when opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and must be removed. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.
After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It is important to take your time, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. 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 to move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and simple to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it open.