Window Sash Repairs
Regularly inspect the window sashes for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is the internal framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years if they are properly maintained. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.
The first step for repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width to find the appropriate weather stripping replacement to match.
Then, take it off and place it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, remove the weights using their ropes that should fall into the pocket inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. Nottingham window repairs are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer 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. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty, and give your sash a modern appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out with time and use. This could lead to the window or door that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often straightforward and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the issue is most likely due to the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with minimal effort but this is a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This can be due to various reasons, including the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinges on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To correct the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame's opening and take it off. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.
It is essential to have the tools you require before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take off the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains which hold it in place. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Remove 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 the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs holding the components together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallets.
After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be of the right size. After the new weight is installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may 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 ensure it stays in place when opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and must be removed. It is possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It is important to take your time as they're often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it might require oiling if it seems stiff.
Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom of the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and secure it in the step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.