How Much Can Window Sash Repairs Experts Make?
Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on future repairs.
The sash is an interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform several simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's on both the frame and the sash. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or with the putty blade.
After the sash has been cleared, you can 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, but you can also use scrap wood.
After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife and let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and with use. This can result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the issue. If the issue continues it's likely that the sash balance is off. You will need remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.
Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by various reasons that include an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash was attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In most cases, a few simple 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 needed before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable sash by a rope. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If 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 want to find one that fits correctly. 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.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and mallets.
After the sash has been removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden access panel that can be cut 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 from the sash and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash to ensure that the weights you have might not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb level. Over time, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It's important to be patient because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on window repair of your window, one or two sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.