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Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues in the early stages before they become too much.
The sash is an interior frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for a long time. They can, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.
The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (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.
Then, remove the sash and place it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their ropes which should have slipped into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.
After the sash is cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch upvc window repairs trim from the lumberyard, but you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. When the putty is fully cured, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a modern look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then open it to see if this resolves the issue. If the problem persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed without effort, but this is an issue when the weights are worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be due to many factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. 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 (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. Many times, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy costs.
In order to make these repairs to the sash, it's important to have all of the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will help you get the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and place it in a bag that is labeled.
Sash Weights
Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, allowing you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are usually neglected or not used by homeowners.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose using mallets.
After the sash has been removed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you've got may not be of the right size. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double glazed window repairs-hung windows, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and must be removed or moved. You could employ a hammer and chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each component. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, although it may require oiling if it seems stiff.
With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord or chain, and then attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can either use 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's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and simple to install if you purchase them from salvage shops for architectural use. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.