7 Things You've Never Known About Sash Window Repair
How to Repair a Sash Window
Experts agree that restoring old windows using sash is more cost-effective and sustainable than replacing them. Why not try it yourself?
Addressing issues like sticking sashes, draughts, noise pollution and visible damage can make your home more livable. Here are some points to consider before getting started.
Damaged Sash Cords
When the cords that pull the sash upwards and down wear out it becomes difficult to open or close the window. In some cases the cords might break. Sash cords have to be replaced in order to solve this issue. This is a simple fix for any homeowner. It can be completed within a matter of minutes if you are working on just one lower sash.
Prepare your work area by covering the floor in a cloth. This will help catch any debris that might fall or loose nails when you remove the window. Wear a face mask if you're working on an older home to protect yourself from lead paint dust.
Remove the stop beads first. They are small pieces that surround the inner window frame to prevent the sash sliding out. Take the window sash out of its box and place it on a bench or table. You can now access the cast-iron weights that are hidden behind the window frame. After you remove the weights along with the old sashcords as well as the weights, you can replace them with new ones.
Take a measurement of the length of your old cord to determine the length you'll need to cut your new cord. Make a knot at the other end of the new cord to prevent it from sliding over the pulley on which it was originally. You can now insert your new cord into the access hole you opened in the panel cover. Install the window sash and test it.
Finally, you must reinstall the panel cover and the staff bead. Ensure that all nails are driven securely into the wood and are set below the surface of the wood, to keep the sash from moving too much or damaging the painted finish. If the sash still doesn't slide smoothly, seal the gap between the staff bead and the window with decorators caulk in order to limit the chance of draughts.
After the caulk has dried it's time to reinstall both the sash and trim. If you are not comfortable with tools, you can hire an expert repair service to replace the sash cables for you. However this is a costly alternative. Most homeowners will opt for an easier DIY solution, which involves replacing the damaged cords themselves.
Broken Sash Weights
The sash cords could be damaged if the sash window is not closing or opening properly. Replace the old sash cords and you should be able to get your windows back into functioning order.
Take off the screws that hold the beads in place with the help of a screwdriver. Then, lift the sash from the window frame. Lift the access panels on the side jambs in the event that they are there, to get access to the pulleys and weights for the sash. Carefully remove the sash from the frame and then lay down dust sheets, if possible to avoid damaging walls and paintwork in the process.
Look over the pulleys and sash weights and decide if they are the correct ones. If repairing double glazed windows is heavy, you may need to add more weights in order to balance it. If you don't have lead sash weights available, you can buy them online or at your local hardware store.
When you have the sash weights removed of the pocket, remove any slack in the cords. Then feed the new cord through the pulley, and out the other side of the channel. Then pull the cord until it reaches the weight. Make a knot.
Repeat the process for the other cord. Then, insert the sash back into the window frame making sure it's level. Replace the parting beads and staff bead if required and close the gaps around them with decorators caulk.
The last step is to re-insert the inner sash stops. If you're not sure how to do this, ask an expert for assistance. After reinstalling them, test the windows for functionality. Then, you can put back the window by replacing the trim on the window, access panel covers, and painting any areas damaged or covered during the repairs. Make sure the window is properly installed before installing it. Place the window on a scale and make sure that both sash weights are the same size. If they're not, you can use'make-up weights made from lead to ensure that the sash is in balance.
Faulty Sashlocks
A damaged lock on the sash window is among of the most common reasons that a sash won't open or close properly. In some instances it's simple to fix. However in other instances, the lock may need to be replaced. A damaged lock can also be an issue for security, since it could give an easy opportunity for thieves to gain access to your home.
The window locks are designed to withstand the rigors of use however, they can wear over time. This is mostly due to the hardware being exposed to such a high amount of stress, as well as the natural movement of the house's foundation. If you're dealing with a faulty window lock, it's important to check for other problems that could cause it fail.
When your sash lock isn't locking properly it can often be caused by an interlock that isn't aligned correctly. A slight error in alignment can hinder the keeper from engaging the latch and prevent the door from closing. This can be rectified by pushing the bottom sash down into the room and lifting the top sash up.
Rust buildup inside the mechanism is another common reason why a sashlock doesn't work. Many older window frames are made of aluminum or wood, and they can corrode over time. This corrosion will then create a bond between the mechanisms and prevent them from closing and opening correctly.
In some cases, it is necessary to replace the entire sash lock fastener which can be accomplished easily. It's a simple process that requires only the use of a few tools and patience. First, you'll need remove the old fastener and take off any debris or rust from the surface. Then, you can use a drill to make new holes for the screw and bolt. Then, you'll need screw the new fastener into place and make sure it's secure.
It's a simple job that most homeowners can do. This will guarantee the security and safety of your window. This is a fantastic way of reducing air infiltration and making your home more energy efficient.
Broken Glass Panes
Glass panes are often broken by errant lawnmowers, baseballs, blades, and other debris. When it occurs, you need to decide whether to repair the glass pane or replace the entire window sash. Depending on how damaged the glass is, you may be required to remove the surrounding glazing compound and the metal points. Wear gloves, a mask and protective eyewear when repairing the cracked glass. You should also cover your floor with a drop cloth to prevent small glass particles from getting into your work space and posing a hazard for children or pets.
Before you can replace a window pane, you must carefully remove the old one and scrape any old putty or caulking from the frame's rabbets, or the grooves in which the glass sits. If there's lots of putty, it could be necessary to make use of a pull-type paint scraper or an old chisel and tap lightly to prevent cracking the window. A heat gun can help soften the old putty, so it's easier to remove. After removing the old pane, smooth the rabbets, and then apply caulking compound of your choice or the glaziers compound.
While the putty dries and the glass is ready for installation by cleaning it and wiping it with a damp sponge. Remove the glass's insulation by cutting it along the top and bottom with an utility knife. Then, you'll need to remove the glazing points made of metal that secure it by hammering or pulling them out with a putty knife.
To replace the glazed pane, roll a length of glaziers' compound into a rope that is about 3/4 inch thick. Then press it into the rabbet around the edges of the glass, pressing it firmly against the wood sash. Fill in any gaps or holes that may be present between the frame of putty and the glass. Allow the putty to dry completely before repainting the window. Wear gloves that are protected and cover the work area with a dropcloth to protect yourself from glass shattering.