Window Sash Repairs
Check the windows sashes regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform several simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary thing to address when repairing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, remove the sash and place it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners. Then, take it off by hand or with a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. 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, however you can also use scrap wood.
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 the compound using your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. After the putty has completely cure it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if that solves the issue. If the problem persists, it is most likely the sash balance. It is necessary remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't properly glazed. This can be due to a variety of factors, including a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly and save homeowners money on their 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 with a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to position the channel in the right location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the cost of energy. Corby window repair are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable sash by rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to find replacements.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose with mallets.
After the sash is released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights may be a different size than what you require. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these chains can get damaged and make it difficult to raise windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and require removal. It is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the tiny parting beads from their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed, but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on the components. You should be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.
With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in Step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. They are not expensive and easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.