Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on future repairs.
The sash is an interior frame that is able to move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will show you how to make several simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes give an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, can last for years. However, they can become damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to elements and normal wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.
Camberley window repairs stripping is the first thing to address when repairing windows that have sash. It's on both the frame and the sash. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. Start by identifying the window brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its height and width, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash and set it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should be buried inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, however you can also use a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, and allow it to dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a modern appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the window sashes may wear out with time and use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually easy and affordable. If you're having trouble opening a sash spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash out to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll have to take off the sash to gain access to this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed with minimal effort however, this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This can be due to many factors, including a lack of maintenance and an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this can cause the sash drag, and then eventually to hit the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Old windows, especially those in older homes, may be difficult to close and open due to hinges that are sagging and a general inefficiency. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
It is important to have the tools you require before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back into position correctly after you've completed. Remove the sash and remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords which hold it in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash, and put it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights consist of heavy lead or iron cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back, so you will want to find a new one that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sash cord, and a few sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.
After the sash is released, you can remove sash stops and access the pockets for weights. This is usually done via tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut off so that you can view the inside of the frame.
Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the old sash weight and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be the correct size. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the sash pulley. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level within the jamb. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in place when opened.
The first step to replace sash cords is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically nailed or screwed in and will require to be removed or relocated. It is possible to remove them with 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. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with the chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on the components. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, although it may require lubrication if it feels stiff.
Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can either employ 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 not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you've got the sash unlocked. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights might be required to keep it open.