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Suggestions On How To Replace A Sash Cord On Double Hung Windows Without Too Much Difficulty
Posted on July 23rd, 2010 No commentsHow to replace a sash cord is a lot easier when you understand the mechanics of a double hung window. Every double hung window has two sashes, the top and the bottom. The frame that secures the glass is a sash. The sides of that frame are the jambs. Sash weights sit in back of the jambs. They are connected to a cord pulley system. The weights keep the windows balanced and easy to open.
There are a series of moldings along the jambs creating channels for the sashes to slide. The piece of wood that separates the upper and lower sashes and the one that holds the bottom sash in place can be easily loosened and removed. They need to come out to remove the sash.
Before you start this project, make sure you have the correct tools and material readily available. You will need new sash cord, a putty knife, a hammer, a utility knife, putty, finishing nails, paintbrushes and in case you chip away the paint, enough paint to touch it up.
Take the stops on each side of the lower sash off. Using your putty knife, place it close to each nail that is securing the stops and pry it gently away from the frame. The wood splits easily so take extra care to work patiently.
With the stops removed, the frame should come out easily. Remove the damaged sash cord from its slot. Most sash windows have an access panel to get to the weight. The access panel will need to be removed; if there no access panel then the side window casing has to be taken out to get to the weight.
Painted over access panels will mean chipping the paint to determine where the screws are that hold the panel in place. You may need to score painted edges with the utility knife in order to lift the panel out. Once the panel is removed, any remaining cord should be cut off. Thread the new sash cord over the pulley until it appears in the access panel. Tie the new cord to the weight making sure the knot is sturdy but not bulky as it can get stuck in the window frame. Place the weight back into the cavity. Tie a knot to the other end of the cord to make the weight suspend three inches above the bottom of the sill when the sash is in an open position.
Replace the framework and insert the moldings using finishing nails to secure them. Fill any gaps in the moldings with the putty. Paint any chips in the wood. The project is complete and your double hung window should work like new. Do-it-yourself homeowners can learn how to replace a sash cord by following steps found on the Internet or talking with professionals at our local hardware store.
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The Historical Evidence About Sash Windows
Posted on May 5th, 2010 No commentsWhen tracing the history of sash windows one is also tracing the history of our civilization. This window, also called a hung sash window, had sashes, another name for one or more movable panels. Pulleys, springs and balances to move the panels and allow ventilation operated these panels.
Over the years, there has been a dispute among Historians as to where the idea for these windows came from. It has been claimed by Holland, France and England. Regardless of who originated the idea it became very popular with the more affluent period of that period.
The first use of these windows, according to research, occurred in England in the 17th century. Considered a high status symbol they were in demand by royalty and wealthy people. A window which could not be opened, called a lead-light window was in use prior to this time. The new window became even more expensive, and thus more valued, when a window tax was introduced from 1600 to the 1880s.
To enhance these windows various adornments were worked around the windows frames. Some of these are still in place with historically preserved buildings in Europe. They were considered the height of fashion and very desirable. In the 18th century, classic glazing was brought onto the scene. This consisted of placing six panes over six panes and was commonly used in Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian houses.
With the event of mass production of steel window casings and solid windows, the sash window fell out of popularity and further development of the aluminum window decreased their popularity. With the development of the double pane window in the 1980′s and the desire to conserve energy sash windows were no longer wanted.
In diagnosing the reason, for the decline of this popular window it was determined that the labor costs did not make it feasible to continue production. The the mouldings used required special treatment and could not be massed produced. Builders, especially, found the later model windows were easy to install and maintain.
At the present time there has been a renewal of interest in sash windows. Renovation of other older houses has brought a desire to replace the original materials. As a result, the history of sash windows continues and will be noted in the recording of future history.
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Home Improvement carpentry, construction, glass, glazing, home, Home Improvement, House, joinery, sash windows, timber, wood, wooden windows, work
