Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to elements and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. 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 get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, take it off and place it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty blade.
Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace parting stops. window repair are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and allow it to dry for at least one day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's likely the sash balance. You'll need remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This issue can be due to a variety of factors that include a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.
In order to make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to position the channel in the correct place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and store it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable the sash with rope. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to locate replacements.
It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.
Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallet.
After the sash is released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is usually done via an opening at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood that can be ripped off so that you can view the inside of the frame.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in position when it is opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. It may be possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. It is essential to take your time, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.
With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.
Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not costly and simple to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window one or two sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.