Sash Window Repair
Sash windows add a touch of class to any home. They can become drafty and difficult to repair as they age. Sash window repairs are a great method of enhancing functionality while maintaining the original appearance.
The first step to repairing windows that have sash windows is to take off "pocket covers". These are pieces of wood that are placed low on the frame, that allow access to the weights.
Sashes damaged by abrasions
If your sash window has been damaged or leaks or leaking, you'll need to do more than patch the surface. You'll save money by performing a more thorough repair, especially if your home is old and has poor insulation. Here are some typical problems with sash windows and how to fix them:
Sticking Issues
If the sash does not fit snugly within the frame, it will be difficult to open or close the window. This can cause rattling noises and let drafts into your home.
To solve this issue, use an utility knife to score and cut off the paint line from the inside side of your sash. Be careful not to damage the wood. After that, you'll need apply a sash grease which will help it move more easily.
Broken Sash Cords
Some double-hung sashes from the past have metal or cotton cords supporting the weights used to lift and lower the sashes. Over time, the cords can break, making it difficult to raise or keep the sash up. Follow these steps to fix it:
Move the sash right and remove it from the frame. Pull the cord from the bottom of the sash, then cut it and take out any nails that are protruding from the end. With needle-nosed pliers, remove the nail and insert it into the side channel. Tuck the knot in the the hole and secure it using an nail set.
Install the sash again and add the beads for staff. Be sure to leave plenty of space on the cords to ensure proper operation. Last but not least, put back the balances and counterweights. To reduce draughts, a small amount of decorators caulk may be placed between the bead of the staff and the box.
Glazing putty can be used to fix the sash after it has been repaired. Glazing putty is made using chalk and linseed. Mix in enough of the chalk to make it workable, and not to stick to your hands. Allow the putty to dry completely before reinstalling the sash or painting the frame.
Broken sash cords
To support and balance the sashes in older double-hung windows (two sashes) chains or cotton cords are attached to the counterweights. Over time, the chains may break and prevent the sashes from opening or close. This makes it difficult to raise the window or lower it. The cords of the sash can be replaced in less than an hour.
Remove the staff bead which separates the upper from lower sashes. You can remove the bead by using needle-nose pliers. Normally, a nail is inserted through the knot and into the casing of the sash to hold it in place. Remove any rusty nail from the stop beads and clean the caulk and old cord residue and paint around the sash groove.
To open the window, pull on one of the cords running through the sash to lift it up. Once you've gotten the maximum distance you can make a mark on the cord in pencil and cut it with a utility knife. When you're done making sure that the new cord matches with the groove in the sash and that it's tied to the frame of the sash with a knot.
If the sash isn't moving you can cut the cords with your side cutters. Once the sash has been liberated, you'll have to remove the access panels within the sash channels, exposing the pulley system and counterweights. If the window has been painted, you'll have to cut the seams using either a hammer or chisel, in order to remove the panel without damaging it.
Once you've removed your access panel, you'll see the two cast-iron sash weights inside each pocket. Remove the one on the back and the one on the front, and then tie each sash cord to a weight using a self-tightening knot. After you've tied the new cords, you can reattach the sashweights, and then reset the system to work properly.
Drafts
Sash windows add a bit of historical charm to older homes, however, they also pose issues with their maintenance. They can be difficult to open or close and can rattle in the wind, and let drafts in. These issues can be caused by swollen or painted wood or sash cords that have rotted. There are several easy and cost-effective solutions to fix these problems and keep your sash window functioning correctly.
The first step to repair an old sash window is to disassemble it. Remove the sash, as well as the frame, and make sure that all parts are in good condition. Then, sand down the wood to enhance its appearance and prevent draughts. A small amount of silicone or wax spray can aid in allowing the sash to slide more easily. If the sash still sticks, use an utility knife to cut off any paint layers. A new set of tilt-pins can enhance the window's performance.
Weights are passed over a system of pulleys to balance the weight of windows with sash. These weights, which are typically constructed of cast iron, can be accessed via an access panel or pocket in the inner lining of the box. To prevent the weights from crashing down, the dividing strip is suspended within the frame to ensure that they do not collide.
Accessing these weights is difficult as the upper sash has been painted shut and is nailed into the position. However, if you're cautious and patient you can take off the sash with a pair of bar clamps, reversed so that they break apart, allowing it out of its groove in the rails that meet. box sash window may have to tap and jiggle it to loosen it but once it's free you can inspect the sash and replace it with new rope.
You can also replace the balance of the sash to make it easier to open and shut the window. Replacing a double-hung sash window balance is a lot easier than it seems, and you can do it yourself with the proper tools and replacement kit.
Rotten sill
Eventually, old timbers will deteriorate and even the best-maintained windows with sash can begin to begin to show signs of decay. If the rot only affects the sill of the window, it might be possible to fix it. If, however, it has spread through the frame to the interior of the house and has caused structural damage it's probably the right time to replace it.
If you have a rotten sill, you must to replace it before it causes damage to your window. The first step is to eliminate the old sill plate as well as studs. You may have to install temporary support in the event that the studs bear weight. After taking the old sill off and washing off any paint remaining from the sill plate. After cleaning the sill then replace it with a new board and nail it into the studs.
A rotten sill can be ugly and cause costly repairs in the future. It could, for instance, cause the sash, which is hard to spot to see, to move. This can result in cracks, bowed or damaged glass pane. A rotten sill can allow water to get into the wall, causing mold.
It's not as difficult as you think to replace a rotten sill. To stop rot, you must keep the window free of debris and dirt. It is also recommended to apply a protective seal to the frames of your windows to guard them from moisture. You can also use a humidifier to regulate the humidity inside your home. This will stop the wooden sashes from sticking or expanding.
Sticking sashes are a common problem with sash windows. This issue can be fixed by applying a small amount silicone or wax to the window tracks. This will allow them to slide more easily. If the sashes have become stuck due to paint buildup you can use an utility knife to cut the paint layers and free the sashes.
Reinstalling the parting bead is another way to fix a stuck sash. If the sash is still stuck, you can try draught proofing it. This involves putting a strip of rubber between the frame and sash. This will reduce airflow and improves the acoustic properties.