Window Sash Repairs
Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching problems in the early stages before they get out of hand.
The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate as time passes because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and sash. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should be buried inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty knife.
When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once the putty has fully dried and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This can result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening the 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 most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to access the hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with very little effort, but this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This could be caused by many factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinges on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to sagging hinges and general inefficiency. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy bills.
To make these sash repairs, it's important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back into place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.
A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh 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 older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and a mallet.
After the sash has been removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than the one you need. After the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string to allow future adjustments.
double glazing Guildford of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time, these cords may become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when it is 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 require removal. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and easy to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it in an open position.