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Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. By catching problems before they become serious you will save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an interior frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that open. This article will show you how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. If properly maintained, can last for a long time. However, they can be damaged or degrade in time because of exposure to the elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair doors specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great longer than replacement windows.
The first step to doors repair sash window damage is to fix weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash and frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other problems. To fix it, start by determining your window's brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its size and width so that you can get new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, take it off and set it on a surface so that you can reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, remove the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.
Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4 inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.
After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length, 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 and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to the wear and tear of use, and the result can be a window or door repairing that can't be opened or closed easily. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is generally very simple and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash open to see if it resolves the issue. If the problem persists it's likely that the sash balance is off. It is necessary remove the window sash to get access to this part of the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed without effort, however, this can be difficult when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This problem can be caused by a number of reasons, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the specific sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to sag, this can cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that 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 have to unscrew the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older houses, can be difficult to open and close because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency. In many cases it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can make these windows operate smoothly once more and help homeowners save money on their energy bills.
It is essential to have the tools needed before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using a pencil. This will allow you to position the channel in the proper position after you've finished. Remove the sash and remove the hardware including the beads that separate (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that hold it in place. Soften any hardened putty with the help of a heat gun set at medium and equipped with an shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash and store it in a labeled bag.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or simply to ensure that the windows are functional, replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy, lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and attached to the movable sash by rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be opened and closed without using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you might 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 is suitable for the. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins 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 crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes used glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and a mallet.
After the sash is removed, you can remove the stopper on the sash and get access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with the wooden panel which can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
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 before you do this, as the old weights could be a different size than the one you need. After the new weight is installed, you can thread the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches at the head of the string to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights that keeps the sashes balanced in the jamb. 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.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed into and need to be removed. It is possible to take them out using an axe or hammer, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. They are typically wedged into or nailed in, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer and then take out each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain, and then fix it using Step 6 above. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not costly and easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sash weights could be needed to keep it in an open position.
