Why Window Sash Repairs Is More Difficult Than You Imagine
Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is an inside frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their beauty longer than replacement windows.
window repairs Stanmore stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, begin by finding your window brand and glass manufacturer date (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.
Next, remove the sash and set it on a table so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty blade.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can install the stoppers that separate the two sashes. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, then let it dry for a minimum of a day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access this hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This problem could be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and an overall inefficiency. In most instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation and save homeowners cash on energy costs.
In order to make these repairs to sash, it's important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will make it easier to place the channel in the correct place when you are finished. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to find replacements.
A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a replacement that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs that keep the components together can be removed by a pin punch and hammer. Most of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife or a mallet.
Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually this is accomplished by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history have a cord or chain attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced in the jamb. Over time, these chains can become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and keep it in place when opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After removing the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.
With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and attach it as described in the previous step. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have an item that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be simple to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.