Window Sash Repairs
Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching these issues early on, before they become out of control.
The sash is an inside frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the 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. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with the putty blade.
After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cure and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. window repair near me will protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue continues it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need to take off the window sash in order to access the hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be due to many factors such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. Many times 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 crucial to have 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 proper location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag that is labeled.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable window sash using a rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.
After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you have might not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep 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 screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You may be able to use a hammer or chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It is important to be patient, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and the tenon joints by using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each component. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it may require oil if it feels stiff.
With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash open. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.