Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems in the early stages before they become too much.
The sash is an interior frame that moves vertically up and down in windows that are 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 and, when properly maintained, they can last for a long time. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. Start by identifying the brand of window and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping from the corners, then remove it manually or using a putty blade.
Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If a sash is difficult to operate you can try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely the sash balance. You will need remove the window sash to access the hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed with minimal effort but this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by a number of things, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the particular window sash.
If Basingstoke window repairs of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
To make these repairs to the sash it is essential to have all the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to put the channel in the right position after you've finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and store it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to find replacements.
A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is crucial to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallets.
After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually, this is done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off to let you see 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. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be of the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords can become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and require removal. It is possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to 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 with flat bar or chisel. It is essential to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on the components. 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 in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and fix it using the previous step. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window you may require one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.