15 Unexpected Facts About Window Sash Repairs That You Didn't Know About
Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early on before they get out of hand.
The sash is an interior frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to make several simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can become damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Next, remove the sash and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the old weather stripping at the corners, then remove it by hand or using a putty knife.
Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to access this hardware.
Window sashes should open and close with little effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a number of factors, including the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular sash.
If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows especially in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.
It is important to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable the sash with a rope. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.
It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.
After the sash is removed, you can take off the stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. Sunbury-on-Thames window repairs is usually done through a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be a different size than the one you need. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move 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. These are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. You could use a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.
After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each component. You should be able to move the sash around freely, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.
Determine the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and then fix it using the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it open.