double glazing repairs Chatham
Make sure to check the sashes of your windows regularly for signs of damage, mildew and mold. By catching these problems early you will save money on repairs in the future.
The sash is an interior 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 a classic look to your home. They are also sturdy and will last for many years provided they are properly maintained. However, they can become damaged or degrade over time due to exposure to elements and wear and wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows to their original condition and maintain their appearance much longer than replacement windows.
Weather stripping is the first issue to take care of when fixing windows that have sash. It is located on both the frame and sash. It can cause drafts if it's worn or loose. To fix it, begin 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). Take the sash off and mark its width and height so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.
Then, remove the sash from its holder, and place it on an even surface that allows you to see all four sides. If your sash was double-hung, you must remove the weights with their ropes that should be buried inside the jamb lining. After removing the sash with the utility knife, remove the old weather stripping by hand or using a putty blade.
After the sash is cleared, you can install the parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers 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 stopper and trimming it to length after which, apply a thin layer of glazing compound on the bottom of the sash. Smooth it out using your putty knife, then let it dry for at least a few days. Once it's fully cured, apply a top coat of acrylic latex paint. This will help protect the putty and give your sash a fresh look.
Sash Hardware
The hardware that supports window sashes is prone to wearing out from the wear and tear of use and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. The good news is that repairing and replacing this hardware is usually very simple and cost-effective. If you are having trouble opening a sash, spray some oil into the jamb channel. Then, slide the sash open to see if this resolves the problem. If the problem persists, it is most likely the sash balance. It is necessary to take off the window sash in order to get access to this part of the hardware.
Sashes for windows should be able to open and close with little effort. However, this could be difficult if weights are worn out or the sash-to rail connecting rail isn't covered with. This issue can be caused by a number of reasons, such as insufficient maintenance or the wrong weight rating for a particular window sash.
If the hinge arms of a window are starting to sag, this can cause the sash to drag and eventually hit the frame in the corner that's opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To fix this issue, first make sure the sash fits squarely in the frame's opening and then remove it from the window. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, unbolt the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash next (Photo 3).
Due to hinges that are sagging, and a general lack in energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. In most cases, a few simple repairs can transform these windows into smooth operation again and save the homeowner money on energy costs.
In order to make these repairs to sash it is essential to have all the necessary tools lined up before you begin. Mark the hinge channel location on the frame (Photo 1) using pencil. This will help you to place the channel in the right place when you are finished. Take the sash off, and remove all the hardware, including the parting beads cords, chains, and cords that hold the sash in place. Heat gun with nozzle shield and a medium setting can soften any hardened glue. Take off the old sash and place it in a bag that is labeled.
Sash Weights
If your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or just to keep the windows functional by replacing worn out weights on sash can improve sash operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders that are enclosed in a concealed cavity and attached to the movable window sash using rope. These weights provide counterbalance that allows the window to be opened and closed without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash weights are usually neglected or ignored by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently, you may need to find replacements.
A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover, so you will want to find a replacement that is suitable for the. You will also require a new piece string, a length sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.
Older wood windows are joined by mortise and tenon joints. The wood pegs holding the parts together can be removed with pin punches and hammers. The majority of these pegs are big on one side and smaller on the other. It is crucial to remove first the smaller diameter sides. Sashes made later in the century made use of glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting through the glue line with the help of a knife, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.
Once the sash has been released, you can remove sash stops and gain access to the weight pockets. Usually it is done by drilling an opening at the bottom of each jamb. The hole is then covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the interior workings.
Once the sash is stopped and the access panel has been removed, you can take off the weight that was previously installed and replace it. Weigh the sash first, as the weights you have might not be the correct size. Once the new weight is installed, tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the boxed frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head to allow for future adjustments.
Sash Cords
The majority of double-hung windows with a history include a chain or cord connected to the weights that supports and keeps the sashes level in the jamb. As time passes, these cords can become damaged and render it impossible to raise windows. A new sash cable will restore the ability to move and lower the sash and keep 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 need to be removed. It is possible to remove them using a hammer or chisel, however, it is best to lay out dust sheets prior to starting any work.
After you have removed the access panel, you can begin to work on the sash. Utilize a flat bar, or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads from their grooves. It's important to be patient because they are usually stuck or nailed to the floor. If the sash is still in place, pull the mortise-and tenon joints using a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should now be able to move the sash back and forth freely, though it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.
Measure the length of sash chain/sash cord required to reach the sash slot on the bottom from the pulley at the top of the jamb. Cut the chain or cord and secure it as in the previous step. You can use either a hammer, nails, or screws. However nails are less likely to cause damage.
It's best to leave the original weights in place unless you've purchased a kit to replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. It's not expensive to buy them from architectural salvage stores and they will be easy to install once you have the sash open. Depending on the size of your window, one or two sashweights may be needed to keep it in an open position.