window repair Sash Repairs
(Image: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Glass-Replacement-150x150.jpg)Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew, and damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching the issues early, before they get out of hand.
The sash is an interior frame that is vertically moved either up or down in windows that open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide a classic aesthetic to your home. If properly maintained, can last for a long time. They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.
The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it could cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.
Then, take the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to see all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you must remove the ropes and weights that should have fallen into the pocket within the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.
Once the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use scrap wood.
After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and then let it dry for at least a few days. When it's completely dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash an updated appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from time and usage and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel and then open it to see if it solves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to this hardware.
Window sashes should open and close without much effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly glazed. This issue could be caused by various reasons, including a lack of maintenance and a mismatched weight rating.
If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem, make sure that the sash is centered in the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows especially in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy bills.
It is essential to have the tools you need before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back on the correct position after you've finished. Then, remove the sash and remove the hardware including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield to block the nozzle. Take off the old sash and place it in a bag that is labeled.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained inside a concealed cavity, and are connected via a rope to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need 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 connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to cut off the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of them are large on one side, but smaller on the other. It is important to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut by using a knife and mallet.
Once the sash is freed and removed, you can take off the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is then covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inside workings.
When the sash has been shut off and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first because the weights you have might not be of the right size. Once the new weight is installed then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb level. Over time these cords can break, making it difficult to raise the window repairs. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or relocated. You could employ a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out and it's worth your time here. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each component. The sash should be able move freely, however it may require some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.
With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley in the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.
It's best to leave the original weights if you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be simple to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it open.