Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. If you catch these issues early you will save money on future repairs.
The sash is an internal frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or degrade as time passes because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.
The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can cause drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, take it off and set it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should be buried in the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.
After the sash is cleared, you can install parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stopper and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least one day. Once the putty has fully cure it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed with minimal effort but this can be difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem could be caused by many factors, including a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Many times, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.
It is crucial to have the tools needed before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to place the channel in the proper location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and store it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable sash by rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to locate 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 fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.
After the sash has been removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually window repair near me is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be removed which is why it's worth 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. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, although it might require oiling if it seems stiff.
With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. 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 opened. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.