10 Things Everyone Gets Wrong Concerning Window Sash Repairs
Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid future repair costs by catching problems early before they get out of hand.
The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and last for a long time provided they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded as time passes due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.
The first step for window repairs sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, take it off and set it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.
When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you could also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over 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, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue continues it's most likely the sash balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.
Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly coated. This problem can be caused by a number of factors, including the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific window sash.
If the hinges on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and general inefficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy costs.
To complete these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to position the channel in the right position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.
It's not easy to retrieve 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 sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.
Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood that can be cut off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be a different size than the one you need. After the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the sash pulley. Then nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
Most double glazed window repairs near me-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It may be possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It is important to take your time, as these are often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each component. The sash should be able move freely, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
Measure the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or window repairs cord and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.