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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, before they become out of control.
The sash is an inside frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they can become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear. However, sash repair double glazed windows experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.
The first step for sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. It can cause drafts if worn or loose. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height to find new weather stripping that matches.
Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to access all four sides. If your sash has a double glazing window repair-hung, you’ll also need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you’ve removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to cut off the old weather stripping at the corners, and Window Sash Repairs then remove it by hand or using a putty blade.
Once the sash is clear, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty tool, and let it dry at least one day. Once it’s fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and window sash repairs give your sash an updated look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage, and the result can be a window or door that won’t open or close easily. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is typically quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn’t easy to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then slide it 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 in order to access this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed with minimal effort but this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash that joins rail isn’t properly coated. This problem can be due to many factors, including an absence of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To resolve this problem, first ensure that the sash fits squarely in the frame’s opening and then take it out of the window. If the sash is attached to the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Old windows, particularly those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, due to sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy costs.
It is essential to have the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will help you get the channel back on the correct position after you’ve finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be changed to improve the performance of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners and then turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to locate replacements.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the parts together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs have large diameters on one side and a smaller size on the other, so it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter ones first. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated with a knife and mallets.
Once the sash has been removed, you can take off the sash stops and access the weight pockets. This is typically done by drilling a small hole at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is surrounded by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you’ll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, as the weights that were previously used may be different sizes than what is needed. Once the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double-hung windows the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This keeps the sashes of the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult to raise the window. A new sash cable will give you the ability to move and lower the sash and keep it in position 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 will need to be removed or relocated. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to remove them but it’s best to lay down dust sheets before commencing any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as “tie rails”) out of their grooves using the chisel or flat bar. It is important to take your time, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and tenon joints free using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth without difficulty, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.
With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and fix it using the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails or screws. However, nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
It is best to keep the original weights if you’ve purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They are not expensive and easy to install if you purchase them from salvage shops for architectural use. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights could be needed to keep it in an open position.
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