Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early before they get out of hand.
The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform several simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over 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 thing to address when repairing sash windows. It's on both the frame and the sash. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash and place it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty knife.
Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. Once the putty has fully dried and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from age and use and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally relatively easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If the problem persists, it is most likely the sash balance. It is necessary remove the window sash to access the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close without effort, but this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by many factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy bills.
It is essential to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will make it easier to position the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag that is labeled.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to locate replacements.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer 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 diameter on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose using a mallet.
Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed to let you see the inner workings of the frame.
When window repair near me has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights could be different sizes than the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and will need to be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, though it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord, and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.