Window Sash Repairs
Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early, you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can be damaged or degraded in time 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 repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate replacement weather stripping to match.
Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with the putty blade.
After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a few days. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes may wear out over time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that resolves the issue. If the issue continues it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need to remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with minimal effort however, this can be an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This could be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash has been fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
window repair near me that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.
To make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all of 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 help you to place the channel in the right location after you've completed. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce the cost of energy. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via 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. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to search for replacements.
It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.
Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.
Once the sash is freed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in place when it is opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or repositioned. You might be able to employ a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the narrow parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely now, but it might require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. 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 open. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights might be required to keep it in an open position.