10 Ways To Create Your Window Sash Repairs Empire
Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. By catching these problems early you will save money on future repairs.
The sash is an internal frame that is able to move upwards and downwards 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 an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for many years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It's on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty knife.
After the sash is cleared, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings 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 then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully dried it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from age and use and the result could be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if this resolves the problem. If the issue continues it's most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to take off the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this may be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash connecting rail isn't glazed. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for a particular sash.
If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
It is important to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you to put the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and keep it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you might need to locate replacements.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. Chiswick double glazing repair and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of these pegs have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century used 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.
After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with an access panel made of wood which can be removed to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you do this, since the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what you require. After the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes of the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its position when it is opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and must be removed or repositioned. You might be able to employ 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. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is important to be patient because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.