The Reasons Why Adding A Window Sash Repairs To Your Life Can Make All The A Difference
Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home and, when properly maintained, they can last for a long time. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for longer than replacement windows.
The first step in repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should be buried inside the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty blade.
When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. They 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 trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could lead to a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If the issue continues it's likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with minimal effort but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the particular sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly and save homeowners money on their energy bills.
It is important to have the tools needed before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to put the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
West Bromwich double glazing to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. Pin punch and hammer can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or mallet.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and access the pockets for weights. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head 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 helps keep the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in position when it is opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually attached by nails or screws and require removal. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed but can be removed and it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, though it may require oiling if it seems 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 in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in the previous step. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
Unless you've bought an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not costly and easy to install if you purchase them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.