This Is The Myths And Facts Behind Window Sash Repairs

Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. You can save future repair costs by catching problems in the early stages, before they become too much.
The sash is the internal framing that moves vertically upwards or downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to the sash.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes are a great way to add an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to elements and wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore 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 loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Begin by identifying the window's brand and the glass manufacturer's date (etched on the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash and mark its width and height so you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, take the sash from its holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to take off the weights and their accompanying ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with the putty blade.
When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and let it dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. The good thing is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate, try spraying some grease into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if that fixes the problem. If the issue persists, it is most likely to be due to the sash's balance. You'll need remove the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.
Window sashes need to open and close without much effort. However, this could be difficult if the weights are worn out or the sash-to-rail meeting rail is not properly covered with. This problem can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the particular window sash.
If the hinges 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 fix the problem ensure that the sash is aligned in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash has been screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general deficiency in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. Many times it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly once more and save homeowners money on energy bills.
It is important to have the tools you need before you start. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will make it easier to position the channel in the right location after you've completed. Remove the sash, and remove all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any putty that has been hardened. Remove 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 cost of energy. Sash weights are composed of heavy iron or lead cylinders that are encased inside a concealed cavity, and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. They provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be shut and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. The sash-weights are typically disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might need to find replacements.
It's not easy to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits properly. You will also need a new piece of string, a length sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join older wood windows. The wood pegs that keep the parts together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and 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 by using a knife and mallets.
Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done via a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel is removed, you can remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be of the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, you can thread a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then attach the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string sticking out from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows have a cord or chain attached to the weights that keeps the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time, these cords may become damaged and render it impossible to raise the windows. 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. These are usually screwed or nailed into and must be removed. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to prise them off, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After removing window repair near me , you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the narrow parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed in, but they can be prised free and it's worth your time. If the sash is in place, break the mortise and tenon joints using pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs that are on each piece. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and then attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can either employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have a kit that replaces the old counterbalance system, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. It's not too expensive to purchase these from salvage shops for architectural purposes and they will be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Based on the dimensions and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep the sash open.