Window Sash Repairs Tools To Ease Your Daily Life

Window Sash Repairs
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. If you catch these issues early you can save money on future repairs.
The sash is an inside frame that can move up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to do a variety of simple sash repair.
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Wood window sashes give the classic look to your home and, when properly maintained, they will last for years. However, they can 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 keep them looking great for a longer period of time than replacement windows.
The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping. It's found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's damaged or worn out, it can lead to drafts and other problems. Start by identifying the window 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 that you can locate new weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash and set it on a surface to allow access to all four sides. If your sash has a double-hung, you'll have to remove the weights as well as their ropes, which should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. Once you've removed the sash and the weights, use a utility knife to remove the old weather stripping at the corners, then remove it manually or with a putty knife.
Once the sash is clear it is time to replace the parting stops. These are long pieces that separate the sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch-by - 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use scrap wood.
After removing the stopper and cutting it to length, apply a thin coat of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry for at least one day. When the putty is fully cure it is possible to apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will protect the putty and give your sash a new look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from age and use and the result could be a door or window that isn't able to open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is typically very simple and cost-effective. If a sash becomes difficult to operate you can try spraying some grease into the jamb channel and then slide it open to see if this resolves the issue. If not, the problem is most likely due to the sash balance and you'll need to remove the sash to gain access to the hardware.
Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed with very little effort, however, this can be a difficult task if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for the particular window sash.
If the hinge arms on the window begin to move, this could cause the sash to drag and eventually hit against the frame at the opposite corner (Photo 1). To address this issue, first make sure the sash is firmly seated in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is secured to the hinge arm, you'll need to remove the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Then, put in the new sash (Photo 3).
Because of sagging hinges and a general lack of energy efficiency, windows that are old especially in older homes, may be difficult to open or close. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly and help homeowners save money on energy costs.
To complete these repairs to sash it is important to have all the tools needed 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 on position correctly after you've completed. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware including the parting beads, cords, and chains that keep the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and medium setting will soften any hardened putty. Take off the old sash and store it in an labelled bag.
Sash Weights
No matter if your window sash repair needs are to replace a broken cord or to ensure that the windows are functional by replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on energy consumption. Sash weights are composed of heavy lead or iron cylindricals that are contained in a concealed cavity and attached by ropes to the moveable window sash. These weights provide counterbalance which allows the window to be closed and opened without the use of electrical or mechanical devices. When they fail, sashweights tend to be left unnoticed or disabled by homeowners.
It's not easy to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits properly. You will also require a new piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the new weights to the cord.
Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join windows made of older wood. Pin punch and hammer can be used to remove the wood pegs holding the components together. Most of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller size on the other side, so it is important to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs and can be separated by cutting the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised part loose using mallets.
After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and access the weight pocket. This is usually done through tiny holes at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is then covered by an access panel of wood that can be cut off so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.
After the sash has been stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to remove the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. 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. Once the new weight is installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but leave a few inches of string hanging from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
In most old double-hung window the chain or cord is affixed to the weights. This supports and keeps the sashes in the jamb in a balanced manner. Over time, these chains may become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cord will give you the ability to move the sash up and down and hold it in position when it is opened.
To replace sash cords, the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. They are typically screwed or nailed in and require removal. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to remove them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.
After window repairs near me have removed the access panel, you are able to begin working on the sash. Make the small parting beads (also called "tie rails") out of their grooves with a chisel or flat bar. It is essential to be patient as they're often wedged or nailed in place. If the sash is still in place, pry out the mortise and the tenon joints by using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then remove the wood pegs on the components. The sash should be able to move freely, however it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.
Take a measurement of the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom, and the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain, and then secure it in the step 6 above. You can use nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.
If you haven't purchased a kit that replaces the counterbalance system that was in place before, it's best to keep the original balancing weights in place. They're not costly and easy to install if you buy them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, one or two sash weights may be needed to keep the sash in an open position.