Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. If you catch these issues early you will save money on future repairs.
The sash is an internal frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can be damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and the sash. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.
Then, take it off and set it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. Once window repair near me 've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners, then take it off by hand or with a putty knife.
When the sash is clean and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the stopper and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access the hardware.
Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for the specific window sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address 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 attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.
In order to make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag that is labeled.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable window sash using rope. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to locate replacements.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and a mallet.
Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel made of wood which can be removed to let you view the inside of the frame.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be of the right size. After the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes in balance in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.
The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels 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 best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. It is important to take your time, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, though it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.
With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it using the step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.