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Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and other damage. If you catch these issues early you will save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an interior frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will teach you how to perform simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home. When properly maintained, they can last for years. However, they can be damaged or degraded over time, installers due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Sash repair experts can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.
The first step in repair sash window damage is to fix 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 the brand installers of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Take the sash off and mark its size and width so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, you can remove the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll need to remove the weights as well as their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty blade.
After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces that divide the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also use scrap wood.
After removing the stopper for the parting and cutting it to length after which, 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 the putty has fully cured and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear from the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a window or door that won't open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if it resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. You'll need to take off the window sash to access the hardware.
The ideal situation is for window repairs sashes to be able to open and close without effort, however, this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a variety of things, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.
If the hinge arms of a upvc window repair are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to drag 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's opening and take it off. If the sash is fixed to the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. In most instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation for the first time and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.
It is crucial to have the tools needed before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads, installers cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and keep it in a bag labeled.
Sash Weights
Sash weights are able to be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable the sash with rope. They 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's not easy 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 an additional piece of string, a length of the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights onto 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 holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and a mallet.
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 tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is then covered by a wooden access panel that can be ripped off so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel is removed, you can take off the old weight and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail 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
Most double-hung windows of the past include a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes balanced within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cable can restore the ability to move and lower the sash, and ensure it stays in place when it is opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically attached by nails or screws and require removal. You might be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them but it's best to lay down dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After removing the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It is essential to be patient, as these are often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise and the tenon joints by using a hammer and pin punch or screwdriver, and then take out the wood pegs attached to each piece. It should now be possible to move the sash around freely, although it will probably need some oil if it feels stiff.
With the sash in an open position, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and secure it in Step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it's recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's cheap to purchase them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window one or two sashweights might be required to keep the sash in an open position.
