How A Weekly Window Sash Repairs Project Can Change Your Life
Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching the issues early, before they get out of hand.
The sash is an internal frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they can be damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.
The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and their ropes which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.
When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and allow it to dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if it solves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access the hardware.
Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this can be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This issue can be due to various reasons such as a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. Many times just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.
To make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will help you get the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable 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 are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to search for replacements.
It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallet.
After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you've got may not be the correct size. After the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.
The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or repositioned. You might be able to employ a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
Measure the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and fix it using Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
double glazing repairs Huntingdon to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.