Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. If you catch these issues early you can save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they can be damaged or degrade in time because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It’s located on both the frame and sash. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer’s date (etched on the glass’s corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.
Next, remove the sash and set it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. Once you’ve removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it by hand or using a putty blade.
After the sash is cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After the putty has completely cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that can’t be opened or closed easily. It’s good to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then open it to see if this solves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance, and you’ll have to take off the sash to gain access to the hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to open and www.257634.xyz close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific sash.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner that’s opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is squarely inserted into the frame’s opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
It is essential to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back into the correct position after you’ve finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable window sash using rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to search for replacements.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve, so you will want to locate a new one that fits correctly. 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.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.
After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood which can be removed to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.
Once 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. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you have might not be of the right size. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain attached to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in position when it is opened.
The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. You could employ a hammer and 257634 chisel for removing them but it’s best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. It’s important to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.
Determine the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you haven’t purchased a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it’s best to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They’re not costly and easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.