A Guide To Window Sash Repairs From Beginning To End
Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is an interior frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes are a great way to add a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years when they are maintained properly. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.
The first step to sash window repairs (click the up coming web site) is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and window Repairs mark its width and height so you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes, 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 weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use scrap wood.
After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's good to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to access this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by various reasons, including the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, especially those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, window repairs due to sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners cash on energy costs.
In order to make these sash repairs, 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 assist you in getting the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and store it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable window sash using a rope. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.
A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be 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 them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallets.
Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed so that you can see 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 old sash weight and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be different sizes than what is needed. After the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double glazed window repairs-hung windows have a cord or chain connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and must be removed. It may be possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It is essential to take your time as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs that are on the components. The sash should be able move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to 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 chain or cord, and then attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.
