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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 repairs in the future.
The sash is an internal frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also durable and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or deteriorate as time passes due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash doors repair experts can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the glass's corner, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can purchase new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, take it off and place it on a work surface so that you can reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, take out the weights using their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.
After the sash is cleared, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you can also use scrap wood.
After removing the stopper and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cure it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This can result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing or repairing glass this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to access this hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close without effort, however, this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for the specific sash.
If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). 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 or close. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
To complete these repairs to double glazing windows to the sash it is important to have all the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will help you get the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with a shield to block the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to find replacements.
It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord and 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. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, so it is important to remove the small-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and a mallet.
Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you have may not be the right size. After the new weight is installed, run an appropriate length of string through the pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and hold it in place when 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 will require to be removed or moved. It is possible to remove them using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can start working on the sash. Use a flat bar or chisel, to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. It is essential to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, though it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.
With the sash open With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the chain or cord, and then secure it in the previous step. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.
It's best to leave the original weights if you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash opened. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it in an open position.