Window Sash Repairs
Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to elements and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.
window repairs near me stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows with sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the glass 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 you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Next, remove the sash and place it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried in 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 knife.
After the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. Once the putty has fully dried it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if that resolves the issue. If the issue continues it's likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with minimal effort but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific window sash.
If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
It is important to have the tools you require before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to position the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to search for replacements.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to locate a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.
After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done through tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights could be different in size from what is needed. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb level. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. It is possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. It's important to be patient as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to each piece. The sash should be able move freely, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
Determine the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and 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 recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.