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Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching the issues in the early stages, before they become too much.
The sash is an interior framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement upvc windows repair.
Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It's located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can locate the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, remove the sash and place it on a table to allow access to all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners, then take it off by hand or using a putty blade.
After the sash is cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stop and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage and the result could be a door or window that won't 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 becomes difficult to operate, try spraying some oil into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if it resolves the issue. If the problem persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need to take off the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close without effort, however, this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.
If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag and then hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the frame's opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash window repair was fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Next, install the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.
In order to make these sash repairs, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will make it easier to put the channel in the proper place when you are finished. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and keep it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep your windows functioning by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights consist of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut and opened without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to locate replacements.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.
Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with a knife, then tapping the mortised section loose using a mallet.
After the sash is released, you can remove stops on the sash and get access to the pockets for weights. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with 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 that was previously installed and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash before you do this, as the old weights could be different sizes than what you require. Once the new weight has been installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double glazed windows repair-hung windows, a chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb level. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash up and down and will keep it in its place when opened.
The first step to replace cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and require removal. It may be possible to remove them with the hammer or chisel however, it is best to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. It's important to be patient, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.