Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. If you catch these issues early you will save money on future repairs.
The sash is the interior framing that can be moved vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. They may, however, get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows.
The first step to repair sash windows is to address weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash and mark its size and width so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, remove the sash and set it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the ropes and weights that should be buried within the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, take off the old weather stripping by hand or with the putty blade.
After the sash has been cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could substitute with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry for at least a day. After it has fully dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.
window repair Macclesfield that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to age and use and the result could be a window or door that can't be opened or closed easily. It's important to know that replacing or repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash out to see if this resolves the problem. If not, the problem is likely with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to gain access to the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, but this is difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a variety of things, such as the lack of maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash has been attached to the hinge arm, remove the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older homes, may be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and general lack of energy efficiency. Sometimes, a few simple fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy bills.
In order to make these repairs to the sash it is important to have all the necessary tools in place before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will help you to put the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that hold it in place. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and place it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable sash by rope. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be opened and closed without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
It is difficult to recover a sash-weight that 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 sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the 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 utilized glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallets.
Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered by a wooden access panel which can be removed to let you view the inside of the frame.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with new. Make sure you weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights could be a different size than what is needed. After the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley for the sash. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the end of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most double-hung windows of the past come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in position when it is opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and require removal. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel to remove them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets before starting 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 with a chisel or flat bar. It's important to take your time because they are usually wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pull the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver, then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased an item that replaces the old counterbalance system it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not expensive and easy to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.