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

Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching problems before they become serious you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an interior frame that is able to move upwards and downwards in windows that open. This article will show you how to do a variety of simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wood window sashes provide an elegant look to your home. When properly maintained, can last for recommended site . They can, however, become damaged or degraded with time due to exposure and normal wear and tear. Thankfully, sash repair experts can restore your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking great for much longer than newer replacement windows.

The first step in sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which can be found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's loose or worn out, it can lead to drafts, as well as other issues. To fix it, start by finding your window brand and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Then, take the sash off and mark its width and height, so you can find new weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should fall into the pocket within the jamb lining. 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 using a putty blade.

When the sash is clean, you can replace the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam likes to replace these with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard, but you could also use a piece of scrap wood.

After removing the parting stop and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound with your putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least one day. When it's completely dried and dried, apply a second coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash an updated look.


Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports windows sashes can become worn out over time and with use. This could result in windows or doors that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and fixing this hardware is usually straightforward and cost-effective. If you're having difficulty opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if it resolves the problem. If the issue persists, it is most likely the sash balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash to access the hardware.

Window sashes should be able to open and close with minimal effort. However, this can be a challenge if the weights have been worn out or the sash-to rail meeting rail is not properly coated. This problem can be caused by a variety of things, such as lack of maintenance or by an incorrect weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window are beginning to slide, this could cause the sash to slide and eventually land on the frame in the corner in the opposite direction of the hinge arm (Photo 1). To address this problem, first ensure that the sash is firmly seated in the opening of the frame and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed to the hinge arm, you'll need to unscrew 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, old windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open or close. In many cases, a few simple repairs can turn these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy bills.

It is important to have the tools needed before you start. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) with a pencil. This will assist you in getting the channel back on position correctly after you've completed. Then, remove the sash and take off the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the cords or chains that secure it. Soften any putty that has been hardened with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with a nozzle shield. Remove the old sash and put it in a bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be changed to improve the operation of your window sash and decrease the cost of energy. Sash weights consist of iron or lead cylinders that are enclosed 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 using mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are often disregarded or disabled by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to find replacements.

It's difficult to retrieve the sash-weight that fell from the cavity, so you'll need to find one that fits correctly. You will also require an additional piece of string, a length of sash cord, and a few sash pulleys that will tie the new sash weights to the sash cord.

Older windows made of wood are joined using mortise and tenon joints. Hammers and pins can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. The majority of these pegs have an enormous diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other side, so it is crucial to take out the small-diameter sides first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.

Once the sash is freed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is usually done through a small hole at the bottom of every jamb. The hole is surrounded by a 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 take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with the new. Make sure you weigh the sash prior to you begin, as the old weights could be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight has been installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, you can attach the string to the boxed frame. Leave a few inches protruding at the top of the string to allow future adjustments.

Sash Cords

The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord attached to the weights which helps keep the sashes in balance within the jamb. Over time these cords can break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord will restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and will keep it in its position when it is opened.

To replace sash cords the first step is to remove the access panels from the jambs. These are usually fixed or screwed in and must be removed or repositioned. You may be able to employ a hammer and chisel for removing them, but it's always better to lay down dust sheets prior to commencing any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out, so it's worth taking your time. If the sash is still in place, remove the mortise and tenon joints using the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs on the components. The sash should move around freely now, however it may need some lubrication in order to feel less stiff.

Determine the length of the sash chain or sash cord required to reach the sash slot at the bottom, and the pulley located at the top of the jamb. Cut the cord/chain and then fix it as described in Step 6 above. You can do this with a hammer, nails or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the old counterbalance. They're not expensive and are easy to install if you buy them at architectural salvage stores. Based on the size and shape of your window you may need to use one or two sashweights to keep the sash open.

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