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upvc window repairs Sash Repairs
Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching these issues early before they become too much.
The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it manually or with a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length 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 a day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing or fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel then open it to see if it solves the issue. If not, the problem is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed without effort, but this is a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
In order to make these repairs to sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to put the channel in the right position after you've finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the beads for parting cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable sash by rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to locate replacements.
It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. 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.
Older wood windows are joined with 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, but smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallets.
Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished 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 from the sash and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you have may not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double glazed window repairs-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold 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 installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or moved. You may be able to use a hammer and window repairs chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting 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 in, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it may require oil if it feels stiff.
Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and fix it using the step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and nail or screws, but 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. They're not costly and are easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it open.
