5 Window Sash Repairs Lessons From The Professionals
window repair near me must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and other damage. By catching these problems early you can save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they can 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 keep them looking fantastic for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the window's 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 the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to remove the weather stripping from the corners. Then, remove it manually or using a putty blade.
After the sash has been cleared it is time to replace the parting stops. 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 can also use scrap wood.
After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty knife, and let it dry at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the window sashes may wear out over time and use. This could result in the window or door that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically relatively easy and affordable. If a sash is difficult to operate try spraying oil into the jamb channel then open it to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access the hardware.
Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this may be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This issue could be caused by various reasons that include an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms on a window begin to sag this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In many instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners money on energy bills.
It is essential to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you to position the channel in the right place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable the sash with a rope. They are counterbalancers, allowing the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually ignored or disabled by homeowners.
It's not easy to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional 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 are used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or a mallet.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off to let you view the inside of the frame.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you do this, as the old weights may be different sizes than what you require. Once the new weight is in place, tie a string to it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string hanging from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb level. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position when it is opened.
The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pull the small parting beads from their grooves. It is important to be patient, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it may require oiling if it seems stiff.
With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and attach it in the previous step. You can either use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They're not expensive and easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.