Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can become damaged or degrade over 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.
The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their ropes which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once window repair near me 've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners, and then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.
When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. When the putty is fully cure and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if this fixes the problem. If the issue persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need to take off the window sash to reach this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed with very little effort, but this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a number of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.
If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.
To make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you to position the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and place it in a labelled bag.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.
It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.
Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallets.
After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight you used 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 then tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb balanced. 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 hold it in place when it is opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and must be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.
After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads from their grooves. It is important to be patient because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs on each component. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, although it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.
Measure the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and attach it as described in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.