Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early, you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is an internal frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, window repairs near me may become damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.
The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. 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. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use scrap wood.
After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and let it dry at least one day. After it has fully dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't coated. This problem can be due to many factors that include a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.
It is crucial to have the tools you need before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and store it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning and functional, replacing worn-out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable the sash with a rope. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.
It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.
After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you 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 thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb level. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when opened.
The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. It is possible to remove them with a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it using the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not expensive and are easy to install if purchased them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.