10 Things People Get Wrong About The Word "Window Sash Repairs"
Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for 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 either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time when they are maintained properly. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.
The first step in sash window repair s is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the window 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 that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.
Next, remove the sash and place it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty blade.
After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can also use with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least one 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 modern look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if it solves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to the hardware.
Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't glazed. This issue can be caused by a number of factors, including insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and general inefficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on their energy bills.
It is important to have the tools you require before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back in place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and linked to the moveable window sash using rope. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to search for replacements.
A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallet.
After the sash is released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be ripped off so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights could be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past have a cord or chain connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these chains can get damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and require removal. You might be able to use a hammer or chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be removed which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to the components. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.
Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.