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Window Sash Repairs
Check the windows sashes regularly for any damage, mildew and mold. You can save future repair costs by catching these issues early on, before they become out of control.
The sash is an internal frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can add a classic look to your home. window repair are also durable and last for a long time if they are properly maintained. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary aspect to consider when you are repairing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and sash. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other issues. To fix it, start by determining the brand 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 width and height so that you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their ropes which should have slipped into the pocket of the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or with a putty blade.
After the sash has been cleared and clean, you can put in the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use scrap wood.
After removing upvc window repair parting stops and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. When the putty is fully cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out over time and use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's good to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if that fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's most likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary to take off the window sash to reach this hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to swing open and closed without effort, however, this can be difficult when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for the particular sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's directly opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix the problem make sure the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open and close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operators and save homeowners money on energy bills.
In order to make these repairs to sash it is important to have all of the necessary tools in place before you begin. Mark the location of the hinge channel on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to put the channel in the correct location after you've completed. Remove the sash and then remove all hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with an shield to block the nozzle. Remove double glazed window repairs near me and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are made of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and connected by ropes to the moveable window sash. They provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore, you may need to locate replacements.
It's difficult to retrieve a sash-weight that has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights to the sash cord.
Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose with a mallet.
After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be sure to weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights may be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double-hung windows, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes within the jamb level. As time passes, these cords can get damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to raise and lower the sash, and keep it in position when it is opened.
The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and take out the access panels located in the jambs. They are typically fixed or screwed in and must be removed or moved. It may be possible to remove them with an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads from their grooves. It is important to take your time because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require oiling if it seems stiff.
Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain, and then secure it in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they'll be easy to install once you've got the sash open. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may require one or two sashweights to keep it open.