Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues in the early stages before they get out of hand.
The sash is an internal frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate in time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.
The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (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 you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, remove 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, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should be buried within the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty blade.
After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the 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 stopper for the parting 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 at least a day. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a modern look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from age and use and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash up and open to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed with very little effort, however, this can be difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by many factors that include an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, window repair near me can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. In most cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.
In order to make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all of 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 put the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable sash by rope. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to search for replacements.
It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to 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 components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallet.
After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel of wood which can be removed to allow you to view the inside of the frame.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. First, weigh the sash because the weights you've got may not be 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, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable can 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. These are usually screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. It may be possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After removing the access panel, 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 because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each piece. The sash should be able to move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain, and then fix it using the step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy 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 may be needed to keep it in an open position.
