Why Window Sash Repairs Is Right For You
Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an inside frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate as time passes because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.
Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If your sash was double glazing near me-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty knife.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that 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 scrap wood.
After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After the putty has completely dried and dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.
Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular window sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and a general inefficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.
It is crucial to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you to position the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable the sash with a rope. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.
It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, so it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallets.
After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these chains can become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and must be removed or moved. You could use a hammer or chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. It's important to take your time as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on the components. The sash should be able move freely now, window repair but it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
Measure the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain, and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not costly and are easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window repair you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.