Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can avoid future repair costs by catching the issues in the early stages before they get out of hand.
The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that open. This article will demonstrate how to do a variety of simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for a long time. They can, however, be damaged or degraded over time, due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.
The first step for repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's loose or worn out, it could cause drafts, as well as other issues. Start by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or the aluminum spacers between panes). Take the sash off, and mark its size and width so that you can get replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash has a
double glazing repairs near me-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and their accompanying ropes which should have slipped into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you've removed the sash, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners. Then, take it off by hand or using a putty blade.
When the sash is clean it is time to replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the stopper and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried it is possible to apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could lead to the window or
Upvc door Repairs near me that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance, and you'll need to take out the sash in order to access the hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to open and close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail connecting rail isn't coated. This issue could be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the specific window sash.
If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash 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 take it off. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, unbolt 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 open and close due to sagging hinges and an overall inefficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.
It is essential to have the tools you need before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased in a hidden cavity and attached by a rope to the movable window sash. They function as counterbalances, which allows you to open and close the window without requiring mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights are often neglected or not used by homeowners.
It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined with mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed using pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.
After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel made of wood which can be removed to allow you to view the inside of the frame.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than the one you need. Once the new weight is installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or
Upvc Door repairs near me cord is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes in the jamb level. Over time, these cords may 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 hold it in place when it is opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It is important to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on the components. The sash should move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
Determine 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 attach it as described in the previous step. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance.