Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can save future repair costs by catching the issues early on before they get out of hand.
The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can become damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.
The first step to repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (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 purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, remove the sash and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen 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.
After 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, but you can also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool and let it dry for at least one day. After the putty has completely cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to take off the window sash in order to reach this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must move open and shut without effort, but this is an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem could be caused by a variety of factors, including an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install Hornchurch double glazing repairs (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and general lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.
In order to make these sash repairs it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to position the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and put it in a labelled bag.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to search for replacements.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a new one that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins 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 crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and a mallet.
After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be the correct size. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these chains can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when opened.
The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
Determine the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord, and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.