The Little Known Benefits Of Window Sash Repairs
Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early before they become out of control.
The sash is an interior frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for a long time. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the old weather stripping at the corners, then remove it manually or using a putty knife.
Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully cured, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then slide it open to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. It is necessary to remove the window sash to reach this hardware.
Window sashes need to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly covered with. This issue can be due to various reasons, including a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy costs.
In order to make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to place the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash and take out 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 will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and place it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable sash by a rope. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.
It's difficult 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 of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. double glazing repair Kettering and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood that can be cut off so that you can see the inner workings of the frame.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to 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 installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its position when it is opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to remove them with a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. It's important to take your time as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
Measure the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.
Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They're not expensive and simple to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it in an open position.