Window Sash Repairs

Window sashes must be regularly checked for mold, mildew and damage. You can avoid the cost of repairs in the future by catching problems early on, before they become out of control.

The sash is an inside frame that is able to move vertically up and down in windows that open. This article will show you how to make several simple sash repairs.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can give an elegant look to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years if they are properly maintained. They may, however, be damaged or degraded over time due to exposure or normal wear. However, sash repair experts can bring your windows back to their original condition and keep them looking fantastic for longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash Window Repairs (Http://Fpcom.Co.Kr/Bbs/Board.Php?Bo_Table=Free&Wr_Id=1555337) is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. To fix it, start by determining the brand of your window and the date on which the glass was manufactured (etched in the corner of the glass or on the aluminum spacer between panes). Remove the sash, and mark its width and height so you can purchase replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, remove the sash from the holder and place it on a flat surface to allow you to see all four sides. If your sash is double-hung, you'll also need to remove the weights as well as their accompanying ropes that should have fallen into the pocket of the jamb liner. After removing the sash using the utility knife, take off the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using the putty blade.

Once the sash has been cleared, you can replace the stoppers that separate the two sashes. These are long pieces wood that are used to separate the two sashes. Pam likes to replace them with standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. However, you can also use scrap wood.

After removing the parting stops and cutting them to the desired length and thickness, apply a thin layer of glazing compound to the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using a putty knife, and let it dry at least a day. Once the putty has fully dried and dried, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic latex. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes can wear out over time and use. This could result in a door or a window that is difficult to open or close. It's important to know that replacing and repair of this hardware is typically simple and inexpensive. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, you can slide the sash open to see if this resolves the issue. If the issue persists, it is most likely that the sash balance is off. You will need to take off the window sash to reach this hardware.

The ideal situation is for window sashes to be able to open and close with minimal effort but this is an issue when the weights wear out or if the sash that joins rail isn't properly coated. This issue can be caused by a number of things, such as insufficient maintenance or a mismatched weight rating for a particular sash.

If the hinge arms of a window begin to sag, this can cause the sash to slide and eventually strike the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To resolve 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 screwed to the hinge arm, you'll have to loosen the hinge arm and replace it (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).

Windows that are old, especially in older homes, can be difficult to open and close, due to hinges that are sagging and general lack of energy efficiency. In many instances, a few minor repairs can turn these windows into smooth operators again and save the homeowner cash on energy costs.

It is crucial to have the tools you require before you begin. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will allow you to place the channel in the correct position after you've finished. Take the sash off and then remove all hardware, including the parting beads, cords, and chains that hold the sash in place. Soften any hardened putty using the help of a heat gun set at medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Take off the old sash and store it in an bag that is labeled.

Sash Weights

Sash weights can be replaced to improve the operation of your window sash, and also reduce energy costs. Sash weights are hefty lead or iron cylinders, which are enclosed inside a hidden compartment and linked to the moveable the sash with a rope. They are counterbalancers which allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually ignored or discarded by homeowners and turned into scrap when they fail; therefore you may have to search for replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to retrieve and you'll need to locate a new one that fits properly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length sashcord and a few sashpulleys for tying the weights you are replacing to the cord.

Older wood windows are joined with mortise and tenon joints. Pin punch and hammer can be used to take out the wood pegs that hold the components together. Most of them have large diameters on one side and a smaller diameter on the other, which is why it is crucial to take out the smaller-diameter sides first. Later sashes made use of glue instead of pins. They can be cut with a knife and mallets.

After the sash is removed, you can remove the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. This is typically done by drilling an opening at the bottom of every jamb. This hole is covered by an access panel of wood which can be removed so that you can observe the inner workings of the frame.

After the sash has been stopped and the access panel has been removed, you are able to remove the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Be sure to weigh the sash before you do this, since the old weights may be a different size than what is needed. Once the new weight is installed, run the string through the sash pulling mechanism. Then, nail the string to your boxed frame. Leave a few inches of space at the head of the string for future adjustments.

Sash Cords

In most old double glazed window repairs-hung window, a cord or Window Repairs chain is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb balanced. Over time, these cords could break, making it impossible to raise the window. A new sash cord can restore the ability to move the sash upwards and downwards and keep it in position when it is opened.

The first step to replace sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. They are usually installed by screws or nails and will require to be removed or moved. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel to remove them but it's best to lay down dust sheets before beginning any work.

Once the access panel is removed, you can start working on the sash. Take the narrow beads (also known as "tie rails") out of their grooves with flat bar or chisel. They are usually wedged in or nailed, but they can be removed which is why it's worth your time. If the sash is still in place, break the mortise and tenon joints with the help of a hammer and pin or screwdriver, then unhook the wood pegs that are on each piece. The sash should be able move freely now, but it might require some lubrication to make it feel less stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to reach from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot in the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in the previous step. You can use a hammer, nails, or screws. However, nails are less likely to cause damage.

It is best to keep the weights that came with the original counterbalance unless you've purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They are not expensive and are easy to install if you purchase them from architectural salvage stores. Based on the size of your window, one or two sashweights could be needed to keep the sash in an open position.