Window Sash Repairs
Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching problems early, before they get out of hand.
The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform several simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.
The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.
Next, remove window repairs near me and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it manually or using a putty blade.
When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use scrap wood.
After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry at least one day. Once the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then open it to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the problem is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to access the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close without effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the particular window sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and a general inefficiency. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy bills.
It is essential to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you get the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to find replacements.
It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and a mallet.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you have might not be of the right size. After the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and must be removed. You could use a hammer or chisel to prise them off however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
Measure the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it using the step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.