Window Sash Repairs The History Of Window Sash Repairs In 10 Milestones

Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for damage, mildew, and mold. You can reduce future repair costs by catching the issues in the early stages before they become out of control.
The sash is the interior framing that moves vertically either up or down in windows that are open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.
Weather Stripping
Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years when they are maintained properly. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for much longer than newer replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the most important thing to address when repairing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's damaged or is loose. Begin by identifying the brand of window and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners or on the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its width and height so that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.
Then, take the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to reach all four sides. If upvc windows repair is double-hung, you'll need 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 you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping that was left by hand or using a putty blade.
Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. They are long pieces of wood that separate the two sashes. Pam prefers the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimmings from the lumberyard. However, you can substitute a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from time and usage, and the result can be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. It's a good idea to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually simple and inexpensive. If a sash isn't easy to operate you can try spraying some lubrication into the jamb channel then slide it open to see if that solves the issue. If not, the issue is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to this hardware.
Ideally, window sashes must swing open and closed without effort, but this can be a difficult task when the weights wear out or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This issue could be caused by many factors that include the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinges on windows begin to slide, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To remedy the issue, make sure that the sash is in the proper position within the frame opening and then take it off. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, you can install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old particularly those in older houses, could be difficult to open or close. Many times, a few simple fixes can help these windows function smoothly again and help homeowners save money on energy costs.
In order to make these sash repairs it is essential to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame with a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back on place correctly when you're finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that help to hold the sash. A hot gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights are able to be replaced to enhance the efficiency of your window sash and decrease energy costs. Sash weights are made of iron or lead cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and are connected via ropes to the movable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance, allowing the window to be closed and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. If they fail, sashweights tend to be ignored or disabled by homeowners.
It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll want to find one that fits correctly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights the sash cord.
Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed using the use of a pin punch and hammer. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the small-diameter sides first. Sashes that were made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose using a mallet.
After the sash is removed, you can take off the sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight you used and replace it. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the weights that were previously used may be different in size from the one you need. After the new weight is in place you can tie a string around it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In the majority of double-hung windows, a cord or chain is attached to the weights. This helps keep the sashes within the jamb balanced. As time passes, 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 keep it in position when it is opened.
The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and take out the access panels located in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed in and must be removed. It is possible to take them out using the hammer or chisel but it is always best to lay out dust sheets before starting any work.
Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel, to pry the narrow parting beads from their grooves. It is essential to take your time, as these are often placed in a wedge or nail. If the sash is in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints with pin punch and hammer or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each component. The sash should be able move around freely now, however it may require some lubrication to feel less stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of sash cord/chain required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the cord or chain, and then attach it as described in the previous step. You can use a hammer and screws or nails, however nails are less likely to cause damage.
Unless you've bought an upgrade kit to replace the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not costly and simple to install if purchased them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size and shape of your window, you may need to use one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.