8 Tips To Increase Your Window Sash Repairs Game
Author : Kane Holland | Published On : 07 Jun 2024
Window Sash RepairsWindow sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is an internal frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for a long time. However, they can become damaged or degraded as time passes because of exposure to the elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other issues. Start by identifying the window brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket inside the jamb lining. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.
After the sash is cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use scrap wood.
After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool and allow it to dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Bedford window repairs that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage and the result could be a window or door that isn't able to open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's likely the sash balance. You will need remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close without effort, but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a variety of things, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.
If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge 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 many cases just a few easy fixes can make these windows operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on their energy bills.
It is important to have the tools you need before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will make it easier to put the channel in the right position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag that is labeled.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or to keep your windows functioning, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected by a rope to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to find replacements.
It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed with the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised area loose with mallets.
Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done via a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight you used and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be the correct size. Once the new weight has been installed, thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which keeps the sashes level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in place when it is opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After removing the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. It is important to be patient because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able move freely now, but it may need some lubrication to feel less stiff.
With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.
