Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early on, before they become too much.
The sash is an inside frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for years. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
The first step in repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. Start 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). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access 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 with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty blade.
When the sash is clean and clean, you can put in the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use scrap wood.
After removing the stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After the putty has completely cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
windows repair that supports window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if that solves the issue. If the issue persists, it is most likely the sash balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.
Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This problem can be caused by a number of things, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.
If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and an overall inefficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy costs.
To complete these repairs to sash, it's important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to locate replacements.
It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large 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 made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose with a mallet.
Once the sash is freed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood that can be ripped off to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and require removal. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, though it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.
With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you have the sash open. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.