Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is an inside frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate over time because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.
The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, remove the sash and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty knife.
Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use scrap wood.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, 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. After the putty has completely cured it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary to remove the window sash to access the hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with very little effort, but this is difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of factors, including insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the particular window sash.
If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure 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).
Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy costs.
It is essential to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will make it easier to put the channel in the right position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and place it in a bag that is labeled.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable the sash with a rope. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When 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 fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. window repairs near me is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.
After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off so that you can view the inside 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 new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights could be a different size than what you require. After the new weight has been installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when it is opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and must be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs 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 cord/chain required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain, and then secure it in Step 6 above. 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 have the sash open. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights might be required to keep it in an open position.