What Is Window Sash Repairs And How To Utilize It
Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. By catching these problems early, you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.
The first step to sash window repairs (visit their website) is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window repairs and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash and set it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash using a utility knife, you can use it to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty knife.
After the sash is cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if it resolves the problem. If not, the problem is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash to access this hardware.
Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't coated. This problem can be due to various reasons that include an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy costs.
It is essential to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and place it in a labelled bag.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable the sash with a rope. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. 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 used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.
After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood which can be removed to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes level within the jamb. 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 opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work 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 but can be prised free and it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around without difficulty, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.
With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and fix it using Step 6 above. 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 that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash open. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.