Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
The first step in repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, take it off and place it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to remove the old weather stripping at the corners, and then remove it manually or using a putty blade.
When the sash is clean and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured 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 holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's good to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut with very little effort, however, this can be an issue if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular sash.
If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
To make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.
Sash Weights
Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable sash by rope. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to search for replacements.
It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto 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 using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.
Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to let you view the inside of the frame.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave double glazing Braintree at the top of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when it is opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing 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 the chisel or flat bar. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.
With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and fix it using Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It's best to leave the original weights if you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you have the sash open. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it in an open position.