Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. You can reduce future repair costs by catching problems early, before they become out of control.
The sash is an interior frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to the elements 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 most important aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It's on both the frame and sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam likes 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 parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry for at least one day. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash an updated appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access the hardware.
Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This could be caused by many factors, including an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and general inefficiency. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can help these windows function smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy bills.
To make these sash repairs, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. 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 reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance that allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.
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 fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.
Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallets.
After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows include a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes level in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position when it is opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the narrow 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 is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on the components. The sash should be able move freely, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
Measure the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
If double glazing Hounslow haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Based on the size of your window one or two sash weights might be required to keep it open.