Window Sash Repairs Tools To Make Your Life Everyday
Window Sash Repairs
Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew and damage. If you catch these issues early you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is the internal frame that is vertically moved up or down in windows that open. This article will show you how to make several easy repairs to your sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes add the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for a long time. They may, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing sash windows. It is located on both the frame and sash. It could cause drafts if damaged or is loose. To fix it, begin by determining your window's brand and the date of manufacture for the glass (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 find a new weather stripping that is compatible with the original.
Then, take it off and set it on a table so you can access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as the ropes that go with them that should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off and the weights, use a utility knife to cut away the weather stripping from the corners, and then remove it manually or using a putty knife.
After the sash has been cleared, you can install parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you could also substitute a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stops and trimming them to your desired length then apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife and let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried, you can apply an acrylic latex topcoat. This coating will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that holds the windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and repairing this hardware is often simple and inexpensive. If you're having trouble opening the sash, spray some lubricant into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash up and open to see if that fixes the problem. If not, the issue is likely with the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash in order to access this hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this can be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by a mismatched weight rating for a particular sash.
If the hinges on the window begin to move, this can cause the sash drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue make sure the sash is aligned in the frame's opening and remove it. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to close and open because of sagging hinges and an overall lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.
To complete these repairs to sash, it's important to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will allow you to get the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty with an electric heat gun set to medium and equipped with a shield for the nozzle. Remove the old sash, and store it in an bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce the energy cost. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a concealed cavity and connected to the movable sash by a rope. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and shut the window without having to use mechanical or electrical devices. When they fail, sashweights are often ignored 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 fits properly. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints are used to join windows made of older wood. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs holding the components together. The majority of these pegs are large on one side, and smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.
After the sash is released, you can remove the sash stops and access the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening in the bottom of each jamb. window repair near me is then covered by an access panel of wood that can be ripped off to let you view the inside of the frame.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be the right size. Once the new weight is installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.
Sash Cords
Most old double-hung windows come with a chain or cord attached to the weights which supports and keeps the sashes balanced within the jamb. Over time, these cords can get damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels within the jambs. These are usually attached by nails or screws and need to be removed. It may be possible to remove them with a hammer or chisel, but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using flat bar or chisel. It's important to take your time as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and-tenon joints out using a hammer or screwdriver and then remove each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash around without difficulty, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.
With the sash in an open position Take a measurement of the sash chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and attach it as described in Step 6 above. You can employ a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased an upgrade kit to replace the old counterbalance system, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. It's not too expensive to purchase them from a salvage store and they'll be easy to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it open.