Window Sash Repairs Regularly inspect the window sashes for damage, mildew, and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on repairs in the future. The sash is an interior frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to perform easy repairs to your sash. Weather Stripping Wooden window sashes can add an elegant look to your home. They are also durable and can last many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can get damaged or deteriorated over time due to exposure or normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original state and keep them looking great much longer than replacement windows. The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if worn out or loose. To fix it, begin by determining the brand of your window and the date of manufacture for the glass (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can purchase 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 have to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket that was intended to be in the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping that was left by hand or with a putty blade. When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that split the sashes. Pam prefers to replace them with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also replace them with scrap wood. After removing the stopper and cutting it to length and then apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry for at least a day. Once it's fully cured then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh look. Sash Hardware The hardware that holds window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage and the result could be a door or window that won't open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically easy and affordable. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if this fixes the problem. If the problem persists, it is most likely the sash balance. You will need remove the window sash in order to reach this hardware. Ideally, window sashes must be able to open and close with very little effort, but this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including the lack of maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for the specific window sash. If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve this issue, first make sure the sash is squarely inserted into the opening of the frame and then take it out of the window. If the sash has been screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3). Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close due to hinges that are sagging and an overall inefficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy costs. It is important to have the tools needed before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will make it easier to place the channel in the right location after you've completed. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware, including the beads for parting, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an shield for the nozzle. Take off the old sash and store it in a labeled bag. Sash Weights Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a damaged cord or to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out sash weights will improve sash operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable sash by a rope. They function as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore, you may need to find replacements. A weight from a sash that fell out of the cavity is difficult to get back and you'll need to find a replacement that fits correctly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length the sash cord, as well as some sash pulleys to tie the new sash weights onto the sash cord. Older wood windows are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed by the use of a pin punch and hammer. 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 made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised area 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 typically done by drilling a small hole in the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings. Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to take off the old sash weight and replace it with the new. Be window repair near me to weigh the sash first because the weights you have may not be of the right size. Once the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, leaving a few inches of string sticking out from the head for future adjustment. Sash Cords In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb level. Over time, these chains may become damaged and make it difficult to raise the windows. A new sash cable will give you the ability to raise and lower the sash and keep it in place when it is opened. The first step in replacing cords for sash is to locate and remove the access panels within the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or relocated. It is possible to remove them using the hammer or chisel but it is always better to lay out dust sheets before beginning any work. After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel, to pry the narrow parting beads from their grooves. They are typically wedged into or nailed but can be prised free which is why it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pry out the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on each component. The sash should be able to move freely, however it may need some lubrication to feel less stiff. Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain and fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can either use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage. It is best to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance. They're not costly and simple to install if purchased them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window two or three sash weights may be needed to keep it in an open position.
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