Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes must be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew, and damage. By catching these problems early, you can save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an inside frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will demonstrate how to carry out a few simple repairs to sash.
Weather Stripping
Wood
upvc window repair sashes provide the classic look to your home. If properly maintained, they can last for many years. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure and normal wear. Fortunately, sash repair specialists can restore your windows back to their original condition and maintain their appearance for much longer than newer replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the primary issue to take care of when fixing windows with sash. It is located on both the frame and the sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn out or loose. Begin by identifying the
upvc window repair brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corners, or the aluminum spacers between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, take it off and set it on a work surface to allow access to all four sides. If the sash is double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights and their ropes, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. Once you've taken the sash off, use a utility knife to cut off the weather stripping that was formerly in place at the corners. Then, remove it manually or with a putty knife.
When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces of wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use the standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trimming from the lumberyard. However, you could also use with a scrap piece of wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth out the compound using your putty knife, and then let it dry for a minimum of a day. After it has fully dried then apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually relatively 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 that fixes the problem. If the problem persists it's most likely the sash balance. It is necessary remove the window sash in order to access the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should be able to open and close without effort, but this can be a difficult task when the weights are worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly coated. This could be caused by many factors, including the lack of maintenance or an unmatched weight rating.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to slide, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually strike the frame in the corner that's in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue make sure the sash is centered in the frame opening and then remove it. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. Sometimes just a few easy fixes can allow these windows to operate smoothly and save homeowners money on energy bills.
It is crucial to have the tools you need before you begin. Start by marking the location of the hinge channel on the frame with pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to get the channel back in position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that help to hold the sash. Soften any putty that has been hardened with an electric heat gun set to medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag that is labeled.
Sash Weights
Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or simply to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and help reduce energy costs. Sash weights are composed of iron or lead cylinders that are encased in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the movable window sash. These weights act as counterbalances, which allows you to open and shut the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners and turned into scrap when they break; therefore you may have to search for replacements.
It's difficult to retrieve an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also need an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord and some sash pulleys to connect the new sash weights onto the sash cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed with a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, but smaller on the other. It is essential to first remove the smaller diameter sides. Later sashes utilized glue instead of pins. They can be separated by using a knife and a mallet.
After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling a small hole in 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 will be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash before you begin, as the old weights may be different sizes than what you require. After the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the end of the string for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of
double glazed window repairs near me-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights that helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. As time passes, these cords may break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its place when it is opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically installed by screws or nails and will need to be removed or moved. You could use a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.
After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves using a chisel or flat bar. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed, so it's worth taking your time here. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise and tenon joints free with a screwdriver or hammer, then remove each wood peg. It should now be possible to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require oil if it feels stiff.
Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord needed to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley on the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and attach it as described in the step 6 above. You can employ a hammer, screws or nails, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
If you don't have a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it is recommended to keep the original weights for balancing in place. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the size of your window one or two sash weights might be required to keep it in an open position.
