What Can A Weekly Window Sash Repairs Project Can Change Your Life
Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues in the early stages before they get out of hand.
The sash is an internal frame that can move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, can last for many years. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.
The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.
Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double glazed window repairs-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should be buried within the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.
After the sash is cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also use a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stopper for the parting and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. After the putty has completely cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage, and the result can be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying grease into the jamb channel then open it to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to access this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut with minimal effort however, this can be a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be due to a variety of factors that include an absence of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.
To make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and then remove all 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 putty that has been hardened. 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 damaged cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to search for replacements.
A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed with the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed to let you view the inside of the frame.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what you require. After the new weight has been installed, thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and must be removed. It may be possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Prise the narrow parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with 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. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size and shape of your Window Repair, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.
