What's The Reason Everyone Is Talking About Window Sash Repairs Right Now
Author : McDermott Guzman | Published On : 09 Jun 2024
Window Sash RepairsWindow sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. You can save future repair costs by catching the issues early, before they get out of hand.
The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that are open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal 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 primary thing to address when repairing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and sash. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.
Then, take 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 need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and allow it to dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully cured it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a modern look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a window or door that won't open or close easily. It's good to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If a sash is difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if that resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the sash balance, and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.
Window sashes need to open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This can be due to various reasons such as an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning 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 ensure that the sash is centered in 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). Then, you can 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 an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many cases, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on energy costs.
In order to make these sash repairs it is important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). Whitstable double glazing repairs will help you to place the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy consumption. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable window sash using a rope. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be neglected or not used by homeowners.
It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose with a mallet.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the weight pockets. This is usually done through an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood that can be ripped off to let you view the inside of the frame.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights may be different in size from what you require. Once the new weight is installed, you can thread an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes within the jamb level. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in place when opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.
After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the narrow partsing beads out of their grooves. It's important to be patient, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each piece. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it will probably need some lubrication if it feels stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then attach it in the previous step. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. They're not expensive and easy to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.
