Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues in the early stages, before they become too much.
The sash is an inside frame that moves upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.
The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, take it off and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty knife.
Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry at least one day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if this solves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to access this hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This issue can be due to a variety of factors that include an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash was fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many cases just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy costs.
In order to make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to place the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and place it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable the sash with a rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back It is therefore important to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.
After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by 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 weight that was previously installed and replace it. First, weigh the sash, as the weights you've got may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb balanced. As time passes, these cords may become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. window repairs near me is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the tiny parting beads from their grooves. It's important to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each piece. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require lubrication 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 reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They are not expensive and simple to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.