Regularly inspect the window sashes for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you will save money on future repairs.
The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for many years. However, they may become damaged or degrade as time passes due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove window repairs near me from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty blade.
After the sash is cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use scrap wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry at least one day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a modern look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes 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. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that solves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort however, this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This can be due to many factors, including the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.
It is essential 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 right location after you've completed. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and keep it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via ropes to the moveable window sash. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.
It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and access the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood which can be removed to allow you to observe the inner workings of the frame.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be the correct size. After the new weight has been installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the top of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes level within the jamb. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and make it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when it is opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is essential to be patient as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, although it might require oiling if it seems stiff.
With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
Unless you've bought a kit 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 purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.
