window repair
Check the windows sashes regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. You can save the cost of repairs in the future by catching these issues early on, before they become too much.
The sash is an internal frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can be damaged or degrade in time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important aspect to consider when you are repairing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. It could cause drafts if worn or loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width to find replacement weather stripping to match.
Then, take it off and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool and let it dry at least one day. Once the putty has fully dried and dried, you can 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 window sashes susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use, and the result can be a door or window that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If the issue persists it's most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You will need to take off the window sash to access the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed with very little effort, however, this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of factors, including lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the specific window sash.
If the hinges on a window begin to sag this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close due to sagging hinges and a general inefficiency. In many instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators for the first time and save the homeowner money on energy bills.
It is essential to have the tools needed before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to place the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. The nozzle shield of the heat gun and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Take off the old sash and store it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep the windows functional and functional, replacing worn-out sash weights will improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and connected to the movable sash by rope. These weights function as counterbalances, allowing you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you might need to search for replacements.
It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that is suitable for the. 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 using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallet.
After the sash is removed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of old double-hung windows, a chain or cord is connected to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in place when it is opened.
To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed into and require removal. It is possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning 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 the chisel or flat bar. It's important to be patient because they are usually placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord 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.
It's best to leave the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's cheap to purchase them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep it open.