Window Sash Repairs Tools To Improve Your Daily Life

Window Sash Repairs
Window sashes need to be inspected regularly for signs of mold, mildew and damage. By catching these problems early you will save money on future repairs.
The sash is an interior frame that can move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to perform simple sash repairs.
Weather Stripping
Wood window sashes provide the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, can last for many years. However, they may become damaged or degraded as time passes due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows to their original condition and keep them looking great for longer than replacement windows.
The first step in repair sash windows is to address weather stripping. It's found on both the sash and frame. It could cause drafts if worn out or loose. Start by identifying the window's brand and the manufacturer's date (etched on the glass's corner or the aluminum spacers between panes). Then, remove the sash and mark its height and width, so you can find replacement weather stripping to match.
Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on an even surface that allows you to access all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights and the ropes that go with them, which should have fallen into the intended pocket in the jamb liner. After you have removed the sash using the utility knife, you can remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or with a putty knife.
Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace 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, but you can also replace them with a piece of scrap wood.
After removing the stoppers for parting and trimming them to your desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife and 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 look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports the window sashes can wear out with time and use. This could lead to windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. The good news is that fixing and replacing this hardware is usually quite simple and inexpensive. If you're having difficulty opening the sash, spray some grease into the jamb channel. Then slide the sash up and open to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the balance of the sash and you'll need to take out the sash to access this hardware.
The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with very little effort, however, this can be an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This problem can be caused by a number of reasons, such as the lack of maintenance or an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.
If the hinges on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame in the opposite corner (Photo 1). To fix the problem ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash was screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack of energy efficiency, old windows especially in older homes, may be difficult to open and close. In many instances, a few easy repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.
To complete these repairs to sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel's location on the frame (Photo 1) with pencil. This will allow you to put the channel in the right place when you are finished. Remove the sash and take out all the hardware including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting will soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.
Sash Weights
Sash weights can be replaced to improve the performance of your window sash and reduce energy costs. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed in a hidden cavity and connected to the movable sash by a rope. These weights act as counterbalances and allow you to open and close the window without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to locate replacements.
It is difficult to recover an sash-weight which has fallen from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and a few sashpulleys to secure the new weights to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. The wood pegs that hold the components together can be removed using a pin punch and hammer. The majority of these pegs are big on one side, and smaller on the other. It is important to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes that were made later in the century used glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised area loose using mallets.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the pockets for weights. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inner workings.
After you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you will be able to remove the weight from the sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first to ensure that the weights you've got may not be of the right size. Once the new weight has been installed, run a string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the head of the string to allow future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window, a cord or chain is affixed to the weights. This helps keep the sashes of the jamb level. Over time, these chains can get damaged and make it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in place when opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are usually screwed or nailed in and need to be removed. window repairs near me may be possible to remove them with a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to beginning any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pull the tiny partsing beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed but can be snipped out which is why it's worth your time. If the sash remains in place, pry the mortise-and tenon joints with a screwdriver or hammer and then remove each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash around freely, though it will probably need some oiling if it seems stiff.
With the sash in an open position With the sash in an open position, measure the sash chain or cord to extend from the pulley on the top of the jamb to the sash slot at the bottom. Cut the cord or chain and attach it in the previous step. You can use a hammer and nail or screws, but nails are less likely to cause damage.
It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the old counterbalance. It's not expensive to buy them from a salvage store and they will be easy to install once you have the sash unlocked. Depending on the size of your window, two or three sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.