5 Window Sash Repairs Lessons From The Pros
Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. You can save future repair costs by catching problems early before they become too much.
The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they may become damaged or degraded in time because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.
The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, begin by determining your window's 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 that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Next, remove the sash and place it on a surface so you can access all four sides. If the sash is double glazed window repairs near Me-hung, you must remove the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to cut away the old weather stripping at the corners, and then remove it by hand or with a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. Once the putty has fully cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use and the result could be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then open it to see if it fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access this hardware.
Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this could be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't glazed. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular window sash.
If the hinge arms of a upvc window repair begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. Sometimes just a few easy 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 begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and put it in a labelled bag.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable the sash with rope. These weights function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often ignored or disabled by homeowners.
A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other, which is why it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised part loose with mallets.
After the sash has been removed then you can take out the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the old weights could be different in size from the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double glazed window repairs-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.
The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and will need to be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.
After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. It is important to take your time, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each component. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it may require oil if it feels stiff.
With the sash open Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not costly and simple to install if you purchase them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights to keep it open.
