Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or degraded in time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.
The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width, so you can find replacement weather stripping to match.
Then, remove the sash and place it on a work surface so you can access all four sides. If www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, and then remove it by hand or using a putty knife.
After the sash is cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and let it dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from age and use, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then slide it 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 gain access to the hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash meeting rail is not properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of factors, including insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the particular sash.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge 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 or close. In many cases, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly and save homeowners money on their energy bills.
It is crucial to have the tools needed before you start. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to put the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. 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 also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable sash by a rope. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover It is therefore important to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.
Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.
After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be different in size from the one you need. After the new weight is installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb level. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in position when opened.
The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in 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 commencing any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pull the small parting beads out of their grooves. It is important to be patient as they're often stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs attached to the components. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, although it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's cheap to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sash weights might be required to keep it open.
