What Is Window Sash Repairs And How To Utilize It
Window Sash Repairs
Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is an inside frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.
The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and glass manufacturer date (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 get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty blade.
After the sash is cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also use with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry for at least one day. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a modern look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the window repairs sashes can wear out with time and use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. You will need 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 can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This problem could be caused by many factors such as the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.
To complete these repairs to sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to place the channel in the right position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and window repairs linked to the moveable the sash with a rope. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When 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 want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. Hammers and pins 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 one on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century used 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 with a mallet.
After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done through tiny holes in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be cut off to let you view the inside of the frame.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights may be different in size from what you require. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is connected to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when it is opened.
The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. It may be possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.
After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the small parting beads out of their grooves. It is essential to take your time as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely, however it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.