Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be regularly checked for mold, mildew and other damage. You can reduce the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early before they become too much.
The sash is the interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give a classic aesthetic to your home. When properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.
The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. double glazing repairs New Malden could cause drafts if worn or loose. Begin by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corners or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, so you can find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, take it off and set it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should be buried within the jamb lining. Once you've taken the sash off, 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 is cleared, you can install the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a 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 new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally quite simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue continues, it is most likely the sash balance. You'll need to remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to move open and shut with minimal effort but this is an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly glazed. This could be caused by many factors that include a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue ensure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older houses, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.
It is important to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back into the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the energy cost. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically neglected or ignored by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to locate replacements.
It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallet.
After the sash is released, you can remove the stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood that can be ripped off to allow you to view the inside of the frame.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the end of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes level within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when it is opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or repositioned. It may be possible to take them out using a hammer or chisel, but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After removing the access panel, you are able to begin to work on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. It's important to take your time because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs attached to each piece. You should be able to move the sash around freely, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.
Determine the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord, and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can either employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the original weights if you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.