Window Sash Repairs: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
Window Sash Repairs
Many homeowners don't pay much attention to window sashes, so long as they're able to open and close and keep the air inside and the air out. Over time windows sashes get worn out and cause drafts, air leaks, or even sashes that are stuck.
With a sash propped up on an easel made from wood, the author works glazing points into gaps. He also scrapes off paint and applies an oil-based preservative to the frame.
Sash Weights
When your windows aren't opening and closing with ease or are sagging the way they should, a malfunctioning counter-balancing system could be the cause. This could be due to a damaged or damaged sash cord/chain, an unattached or misaligned sash weight, or a damaged pulley.
The sashweights are tiny boxes made of cast iron that support the counter-weight system and support the sash. They are situated in the bottom rails of each window frame, covered by an access panel of wood that can be removed to reveal their position. These panels can be removed for access to the sash weight pockets to clean, repair or replacement.
You may have an issue with the sashweights if been using your sash windows for over a period of time. They might be sagging or catch. The weights could be too heavy (they should be slightly heavier than top sash) or installed in a way that isn't correct.
To resolve this issue, remove the stops (the trim that runs along the inside of the window where it meets the frame to hold it in position). Place them aside. This requires you to be careful so as to not scratch the appearance of your overlapping rails. You can then make use of a mallet or hammer to break up the stiles from the rails and check them for damage or for any repairs that need to be made.
After inspecting the stiles and rails of the sash, put some dust sheets on the floor and begin working. Start by taking the wood pegs out of the mortise and the tenon joints using pin punches and a hammer or screwdriver. After the pegs have been removed you can begin disassembling the sash by taking out the stop moldings for sash and removing any sash cord knots still attached and, finally, taking the sash off itself.
The next step is to weigh the sash in order to determine the amount of weight is needed to ensure its proper operation. You can buy old-fashioned replacement sashweights online or at some home improvement stores. Be sure to get the correct size to avoid over or under-weighting the sash.
double glazed sash windows that are worn or broken can lead to sash window issues. Sash cords endure constant pressure from the weights, which can cause them break over time, particularly when they're not maintained properly. The sashes won't be able to open or close as easily if cords break. The problem could be caused by a variety of reasons like excessive force, aging, a lack of maintenance and moisture buildup. It's important that you replace the old cords in window sash repairs with new ones made of materials that are robust and resistant to moisture.
Begin by removing the inner stop strips, the thin wood strips that hold the sashes in their place, using a utility blade and a Chisel. Take care to remove the stops of the sashes while keeping an eye on cracks or broken. After the stops have been removed, you will be able to access the sash weights through an access panel cut into the frame's bottom or by opening the jamb and removing the cover that covers the weight pocket.
It requires a bit of work to reach the sash cords, but with the proper tools and a bit of patience, it's not difficult. Get rid of the old cords first by cutting them at their knots and then pulling them out. Take the sash off and set it aside. Remove the staff bead, which is the nail that keeps the sash in its place. Insert a nail of about a foot length into the hole. This will stop the sash from falling as you finish stringing the counterweights.
After reinstalling the upper sash then reattach the sash cords and ensure that the sashes are in a balanced position and move smoothly. Reinstall the lower sash, and repeat the procedure. Verify that the sashes have been properly set and are moving smoothly.
Once you've completed installing counterweights, connect the sash cords by putting the sash cord through the pulleys, and then threading the cord's other end through a knot hole in the sash, ensuring it is secured in the correct position. Repeat the procedure for each side of the sash until cords are replaced and the sashes function normally again.
Air and Drafts Leaks
Over time, the materials that connect sash windows to the frame of your home deteriorate which can cause drafts and loss of energy. A thorough inspection will reveal the trouble spots and help you determine the options for fixing your window sash. Your comfort level and level will determine if you are able to manage your own repairs or require professional assistance with window sash repair. The scope of work is also affected by the historical property status and the structural integrity.
If cold air enters through a drafty window your furnace is forced to perform overtime to keep your home warm. This inefficiency increases your heating costs and could reduce the effectiveness of your HVAC system. Drafts can also reduce the quality of air inside and cause discomfort in the home by the infiltration of allergens, pollutants and humidity from outside.
A drafty window is evident by the sensation of cold air coming into a room, even when all windows and doors are shut. Other indicators to look out for include an increase in the temperature of your home close to the window and condensation around the frame or sill.
Repairing drafty windows is a an easy task that will reduce your energy bills and increase your comfort in the home. Start by inspecting the exterior of the window. Find areas of unfinished caulking or broken wood which exposes the window to cold air.
Examine the sash's interface with the frame. This includes the parting bead and the staff bead. Examine the condition of weather stripping (felt strips or foam tape) at these locations to determine if it's intact and working. If not, it's time to be replaced.
Examine the condition of glazing putty. This is a hard putty that is used to hold panes of glass that has been tempered in place. Check for cracks and crumbling that can expose the sash's surface to moisture. This can lead to problems with mold and damage to the glass.
Apply a new layer of glazing putty on the outside of the window to fix the problem. To fix the glazing points, make use of a flat-bladed screwdriver push them into place. Then wrap a piece foam and fabric around each point to form an insulation lawyer against cold air.
Aesthetics
Window repair can give old windows a new look for less money than an entire window replacement. A complete replacement of windows can be costly and time-consuming undertaking, particularly for older homes. Restoring window sashes is an excellent way to bring back the original beauty of a home and value.
It is essential to keep an eye on the condition and wear of window sashes in order to avoid major problems. It is recommended to speak with an expert if uncertain about whether your windows require repair. The cost of a sash repair is often much less than the cost to replace the entire window, and could reduce your energy bills in the process.
The first step is to lower the upper sash towards the bottom - this is usually easy and will help you get a clear view of the "parting beads" (these are grooved pieces in the meeting rail on either side that keep the 2 sliding sashes from colliding). Remove these with the blade of a small bar or a putty blade - they are usually nailed into place and stuck with paint so you need to be careful not to scratch them or the sash.
After removing the parting beads you'll have to remove the pocket covers. These are tiny pieces of wood that are screwed into the frame at the bottom. They permit access to the sashweights. Once the nails are removed you can move the sash up and down to ensure it moves easily.
If it doesn't it could be a problem with the counterweights and sash cords. After you've inspected all of these, you can fix them if needed.
Wooden windows are beautiful and natural. They blend in well with modern or traditional interiors. The options for staining and painting are endless. However, wooden windows do require regular maintenance to avoid damage and decay.