Window Sash Repairs
Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching problems early, before they become too much.
The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that are open. window repair will teach you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's on both the frame and sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, take it off and set it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should be buried within the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut without effort, however, this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by various reasons, including an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
It is crucial to have the tools you need before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to position the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallet.
Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood which can be removed so that you can view the inside of the frame.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be different in size from what is needed. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in position when it is opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed, 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 free using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.
With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord, and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.