Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching window repairs near me before they become serious, you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they may become damaged or degrade in time because of exposure to the elements and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or on 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, remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to take off the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it by hand or with a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with scrap wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool 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 may wear out over time and with use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's a good idea to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut with minimal effort but this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be due to various reasons such as a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy bills.
In order to make these sash repairs it is important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag with a label.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.
It is difficult to recover the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed with the use of a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife or mallets.
After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood that can be cut off to let you view the inside of the frame.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be a different size than what you require. After the new weight is installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or repositioned. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the small partsing beads out of their grooves. It's important to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each piece. The sash should be able to move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to feel less 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 or chain and attach it in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep it open.