• 목록
• 답변
• 글쓰기
• 게시판 리스트 옵션
  • 수정
  • 삭제

Window Sash Repairs

Sashes for windows must be checked regularly for mold, mildew, and damage. By catching problems before they become serious, you can save money on repairs in the future.

The sash is an inside frame that moves up and down vertically in windows that are open. This article will teach you how to perform several simple repairs to the sash.

Weather Stripping

Wooden window sashes can add an elegant appearance to your home. They are also sturdy and can last many years if they are properly maintained. However, they may become damaged or degraded over time due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear. Sash repair specialists can restore windows back to their original condition and maintain their beauty much longer than replacement windows.

The first step to sash window repairs is addressing weather stripping, which is found on both the sash as well as the frame. If it's worn or loose, out, it can cause drafts and other problems. 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 size and width so that you can find a replacement weather stripping that matches.

Then, you can remove the sash from the holder and place it on flat surfaces to allow you to reach all four sides. If your sash has been double-hung, take out the weights with their ropes that should have fallen into the pocket in the jamb lining. After removing the sash using the utility knife, remove the weather stripping from the old sash by hand or using a putty knife.

After the sash has been cleaned, you can replace parting stops. These are long pieces wood that divide the two sashes. Pam prefers to use standard 1/2-inch by 3/4-inch window trim from the lumberyard. But, you can also substitute for a scrap piece of lumber.

After removing the stoppers for parting and cutting them to the desired length, apply a thin layer of glazing compound over the bottom of the sash. Smooth the compound using your putty tool, and allow it to dry for at least a day. Once the putty has fully cured, you can apply a topcoat of acrylic. This will help protect the putty, and give your sash a fresh appearance.

Sash Hardware

The hardware that supports window sashes is susceptible to wear and tear due to time and usage and the result could be a window or door that won't open or close easily. It's important to know that replacing or repairing this hardware is often easy and affordable. If a sash isn't easy to operate try spraying lubrication into the jamb channel, and then open it to see if it resolves the issue. If not, the issue is likely to be with the sash balance and you'll need to take out the sash to access the hardware.

Ideally, window sashes should swing open and closed with very little effort, however, this can be difficult if the weights become worn or if the sash's meeting rail isn't properly glazed. This issue could be caused by a variety of things, such as lack of maintenance or by the wrong weight rating for a particular window sash.

If the hinge arms of a window repair are starting to lose their elasticity, this could cause the sash's to drag and eventually land on the frame in the corner opposite the hinge arm (Photo 1). To correct the issue ensure that the sash is centered in the frame opening, and then remove it. If the sash is screwed onto the hinge arm, take it off the hinge and replace it. (Photo 2). Install the new sash (Photo 3).

Due to sagging hinges, and a general lack of energy efficiency, older windows, especially those in older homes, can be difficult to open and close. Sometimes it is a matter of making a few minor adjustments that can allow these windows to operate smoothly again and save homeowners money on energy bills.

It is crucial to have the tools needed before you start. Begin by marking the position of the hinge channel on the frame using a pencil (Photo 1). This will assist you in getting the channel back in the correct position after you've finished. Remove the sash, and then remove the hardware, including the parting beads (Photo 2) and the chains or cords that secure it. Soften any hardened putty with a heat gun set to medium and fitted with an nozzle shield. Remove the old sash, and store it in an bag with a label.

Sash Weights

Whether your window sash repairs are to replace a broken cord or to keep the windows functional, replacing worn out weights for sash will improve its operation and cut down on the energy cost. Sash weights are heavy lead or iron cylinders enclosed in a hidden cavity and attached to the movable window sash using a rope. They are counterbalancers that allows the window to be shut and opened without the need for mechanical or electrical devices. The sash-weights are typically ignored or discarded by homeowners, and are turned into scrap when they fail. Consequently you may have to locate replacements.

A weight in a sash that has fallen out of the cavity is difficult to recover and you'll need to locate a new one that fits correctly. You will also require a fresh piece of string, a length of sashcord and some sashpulleys to tie the new weights to the cord.

Mortise and Tenon joints can be used to join old wood windows. Hammers and pins can be used to remove the wood pegs that hold the parts together. The majority of them have a large diameter on one side and a smaller one on the other, which is why it is essential to remove the smaller-diameter ones first. Sashes made later in the century utilized glue instead of pegs. They can be separated by cutting the glue line using an instrument, and then tapping the mortised section loose with mallets.

After the sash is removed then you can take out the sash stop and gain access to the weight pocket. Usually, this is done through a hole near the bottom of each jamb. This hole is covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal the inside workings.

Once you have the sash stopped and the access panel removed, you'll be able to take off the weight of the old sash and replace it with new. Be sure to weigh the sash first, as the weights you've got may not be the correct size. After the new weight is in place then tie a string to it and then thread it through the pulley of the sash. Then, you can nail the string to the frame, but only leave a few inches of string protruding from the head for future adjustment.

Sash Cords

In most old double-hung window, a chain or cord is attached to the weights. This keeps the sashes in the jamb level. Over time, these cords could break, making it difficult 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 place when it is opened.

The first step in replacing sash cords is to find and remove the access panels in the jambs. These are usually screwed or nailed into and must be removed. You may be able to use a hammer and chisel for removing them however, it is always best to lay down dust sheets before starting any work.

After the access panel has been removed, you can begin working on the sash. Utilize a flat bar or chisel to pry the tiny parting beads out of their grooves. These are often wedged in or nailed, but they can be snipped out and it's worth your time here. If the sash remains in place, break the mortise-and-tenon joints out with a hammer or screwdriver and then take out each wood peg. You should be able to move the sash back and forth freely, although it might require lubrication if it feels stiff.

With the sash open, measure enough sash cord/chain to extend from the pulley at the top of the jamb to the sash slot on the bottom. Cut the cord/chain and then secure it as in Step 6 above. You can use either nail, hammer or screws. However nails are less likely than screws to cause damage.

It is recommended to keep the original weights in place unless you have purchased a kit that will replace the counterbalance that was previously installed. They're not costly and are easy to install if you purchase them at architectural salvage stores. Depending on the dimensions and shape of your window, you might need to install one or two sashweights in order to keep it open.