A Provocative Rant About Window Repair
Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can become seriously damaged over time. Cosmetic damage may require a replacement. However, functional problems like rattles or draughts are indicators that a sash window requires to be repaired.
The first step is to steam the sash to loosen it. Then, take off the wood pegs using a pin punch and hammer. Note and label all the components to ensure that they can later be replaced properly.
Wood that is damaged or broken
If left unattended, rotting timber will begin to degrade brickwork and cause damage to the plaster around the window. The good news is that a lot of the time, this issue can be rectified without having to replace the window altogether.
First, ensure that the wood is dry. It is important to examine the grain and colour of the wood to determine if it's solid and unaffected by damp. If the wood appears soft and brown, it's likely that rot is already present. Verify that the sash's location is supported by a variety of wood spliced sections and that they aren't damp.
Moisture trapped in the corners of sash frames is a common issue. This can cause the sash to become stuck and difficult to open. To solve this problem clean the sash channel and eliminate any obstructions using a sharp chisel made of wood. When the sash channels are free of debris and dirt, they can be primed to avoid future problems with damp.
It's also worth looking at the wood used to make up the window frame. It is best to select wood that is similar in color and grain pattern as the pieces of wood that are currently in use, otherwise it may be difficult to join the joins together. It's also worth looking at applying a preservative to the timber, as this will help keep it in good condition and avoid the possibility of rot.
If the wood in your sash windows are damaged and rotten it may be wise to think about replacing it completely. If you decide to replace it then it is important to select a replacement that is of the same style that your windows are, to ensure it will be as attractive when it's put in your home. Choosing UPVC over timber, for instance, could reduce the value of your home since potential buyers may think you are going against period style.
Faulty Sash Hardware
A sash window is constructed to glide effortlessly, but often wood rot and other problems can affect its functionality. Additionally, double glazed window repairs near me functioning window can cause drafts and decrease in energy efficiency within the home. The longer you leave a sash-window unattended it will begin to wear out faster. This can decrease its lifespan and cause water or moisture infiltration.
It can be frustrating trying to determine the cause of a sash window issue. The good news is, in many instances, a replacement sash might be the solution. The issue could be due to rotting timber, a misalignment or imbalance of the sash or broken glass replacing one or both windows may help to solve the problem.
Replacing a single window sash is less costly than replacing the entire frame and glass. It's also a less complicated task than installing new windows with double-hung frames, which require a greater amount of trims and components that must be removed. It is possible to begin by visually inspecting your existing window and frame, if you are planning to replace the sash. There could be gaps or misalignments, which could cause the sash to tilt and prevent it from staying up.
In the majority of instances, it is possible to fix the double-hung sash by cutting off the trim and working from the inside of the frame. First, you must remove the interior sash stops, which create an internal track that runs along the inside of the bottom window. Spray a hose of water on the paint surface and lightly mist it. Then, pry the stop out with an utility blade. After that, using a razor blade you can trim off any nails protruding through the the stop's interior.
If yours doesn't have one you can make an access hole by cutting a rectangle into the vinyl jamb liners to the height of the stile for the sash. If yours doesn't have one, you can make an access hole from scratch by cutting a rectangle in the jamb liners of vinyl to the height of the stile for the sash.
Sash Weights That Aren't Working
The two weights that pull the sash up and down may become disconnected from one another in time, resulting in the sash becoming jammed, or stuck in an open position. This is caused by broken or worn-out cords for sash that must be replaced.
It's important that you put down dust sheets everywhere possible during this repair project to keep debris or dirt from getting onto your furniture or carpet. This is especially important in the event that you intend to lift and move the window during your work.
Begin by carefully removing each staff bead from the frame on either side using an extremely thin and broad chisel. There should be a groove running down each side of the sash that will eventually end with an opening for knots that is where the new sash cord will be placed. Be sure to get rid of any knots on the old cord that are nailed or screwed into the hole.
Now you're ready to start replacing the sash cords beginning with the top sash. To do this you need to lower the sash slowly until it is in contact with the bottom sill. It can be supported by a thin piece of wood either side of the frame. Otherwise it could fall on the floor, causing damage to the glass.
Then, you can remove the access panel from the frame to access the sash cord and sash weight. Once you have the weight take the dado cut off the edge of the wood, and insert the nail to hold it. Use a nail long enough to reach the pocket of the sash, otherwise it will not fit.
Once you have the weight set, you can then replace the sash cord by feeding it through the hole. Then, you can push the sash over the rails, then down into the windowbox, and then test how it opens/closes. If you need to you need to add more lubrication to the rails (we recommend silicone spray for vinyl or candle wax for wooden sashes).
Replace both cords. Make sure that they're the same length, so that when you remove one from the pin, it can slide through the sash and rest on the pulley, allowing the sash to function normally. Once the sash is hang again, you can put it back on the stop bead and your sash is complete!
Glass that is damaged
A stray ball or broom handle or a pebble thrown by the lawnmowers are usually enough to break a window pane. Broken glass can allow rain, snow, and insects to enter the home. In some instances the resultant damage could require a complete replacement of the window. Installing new windows is an expensive and time-consuming home improvement project. In most cases, replacing damaged windows can be a much more manageable and less costly alternative.
It is important to inspect the existing sash thoroughly before attempting to replace the glass. This will allow you to identify any previously hidden spots where the wood is beginning to decay or where old weather stripping, glue and other hardware have deteriorated. Taking the time to perform this test will save you from having to perform more work down the line.
Once the glass is removed, it's a good idea to give the wood a full coat of homemade wood preservative. Mix equal amounts of mineral spirit and linseed in order to make the wood preservative. Apply the mixture using a putty knife to the surface of sash, and let it completely dry. This will help to ensure that the glass and sash remain resistant to water and will last for a long time.
If the sash is in good shape, it's possible to repair it without having to remove the glass. The first step is to take off the window stop which is a vertical piece of wood that is placed above the stiles in the window frame. This is usually secured using a small bar over a stiff-bladed putty knife. After removing the stop you can separate the rails and stiles using the woodworking hammer or a soft-faced hammer. This will avoid damaging the profile. The next step is to remove the muntins. They are the vertical and horizontal pieces of wood that make up each pane of glass within a shash.
It's simple to replace damaged glass after the muntins have been removed. Use glazing compound to fix the tabs made of metal into their slots on the sash.