Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems in the early stages, before they become out of control.
The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that open. window repairs will show you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they may become damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.
The first step in repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, remove the sash and set it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and their ropes which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty knife.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces 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 can also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty, and give your sash an updated look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the problem. If the issue persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need to take off the window sash in order to access the hardware.
Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't coated. This issue can be due to various reasons such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy bills.
It is important to have the tools needed before you start. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable window sash using a rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.
It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallet.
After the sash has been removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to see the inner workings of the frame.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be different in size from what is needed. After the new weight is installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in place when it is opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and require removal. It is possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads out of their grooves. It's important to be patient, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on the components. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it open.