Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching these issues in the early stages, before they become out of control.
The sash is an inside frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for many years. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.
The first step to repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, take it off and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty blade.
When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers 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 stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to 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 repairing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if it resolves the problem. If the issue persists, it is most likely the sash balance. You'll need remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with minimal effort however, this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be due to many factors, including an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can help these windows function smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.
In order to make these repairs to sash it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently window repairs near me may have to find 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 the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallets.
After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be a different size than what you require. 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 sticking out from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb level. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when opened.
The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.
After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is important 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 using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.
Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and secure it in the step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not costly and are easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it open.