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Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early on before they become too much.
The sash is an inside frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to perform several simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.
The first step in sash window repair s is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, you can remove the sash from its holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty knife.
Once the sash is clear and clean, you can put in the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. But, you can substitute a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stopper 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 a minimum of a day. After the putty has completely cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of 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 and fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if this solves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance and you'll have to take off the sash to access the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should move open and shut with very little effort, but this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be due to many factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close, because of sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In most instances, a few minor repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
It is crucial to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and put it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to search for replacements.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve It is therefore important to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed by pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.
Once the sash is freed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually it is done by drilling a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off to let you observe the inner workings of the frame.
After 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. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that helps keep the sashes level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its position when it is opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. It is possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be prised free, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.
With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and secure it in the step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.