See What Window Sash Repairs Tricks The Celebs Are Using
Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early on before they become out of control.
The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and last for a long time if they are properly maintained. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash lock repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement repair windows.
Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and sash. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, start by determining your window repairing's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.
Next, remove the sash and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide 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 stopper for the parting and cutting it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and let it dry for at least one day. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from age and use, and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if this solves the issue. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash in order to access the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with very little effort, but this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a number of factors, including the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular sash.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then take it off. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, old windows, especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
In order to make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all of the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and linked to the moveable sash by a rope. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.
A sash weight that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to find a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed with the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallet.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be the right size. After the new weight has been installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double glazing repair-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually nailed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be removed and it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. The sash should move freely, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less 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 or chain and secure it in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and 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's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They are not expensive and easy to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.