Sash Window Repair
Sash windows offer an elegant design to homes. Nevertheless, they can be drafty and uncomfortable because of wear and age. Repairs to sash windows are a great method of making them more functional and preserving the original elegance.
The first step in repairing windows that have sash windows is to take off "pocket covers". These are tiny pieces of wood that are located at the bottom of the frame and let the weights in.
Damaged sashes
If your sash window has been damaged or leaking or leaking, you'll need to do more than patch the surface. Performing a more comprehensive repair can save you money in the long run, particularly when you live in an older house that has poor insulation. Here are some common sash window problems and how to fix them:
Stuck Issues
It can be difficult to shut or open the window in the event that the sash does not fit snugly into the frame. This can result in rattling noises and allow drafts to enter your house.
To resolve this solution, use a knife to cut the paint line on the interior side of the sash. Then remove it. Be careful not to scratch the wood. You'll then need to apply a sash lubricant, that will help it move smoothly.
Broken Sash Cords
In some cases, old double-hung sashes use either cotton or metal cords to support the weights that lift and lower the sashes. As time passes, the cords may break, making it difficult to lift the sash and keep it up. Follow these steps to fix the problem:
Remove the frame sash and pull it to the right until it is completely open. Pull the cord from the bottom of the sash, then cut it and remove any nails protruding from the end. Utilizing needle-nosed pliers remove the nail and place it into the side channel. Tuck the knot in the the hole and secure it with an nail set.
Re-install the sash and then install the staff beads. Be sure to leave enough slack in the cords for optimal operation. Reinstall the balances and counterweights. Decorators caulk is an excellent way to reduce the risk of draughts. Apply small amounts of caulk between the staff bead box.
Glazing putty can be used to fix the sash after it has been repaired. Glazing putty is usually made from linseed oil and chalk. Mix in enough chalk to make it workable and not stick to your hands. Allow the putty to dry completely before reinstalling the sash, or painting the frame.
Broken sash cords
To balance and support the sashes in old double-hung windows (two sashes), chains or cotton cords are attached to the counterweights. Over time, the chains may break and prevent the sashes to open or close. This makes it difficult to raise or lower the window. it. Replacing the sash cords is an easy home fix that will solve these problems within less than a half 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 driven through the knot into the casing of the sash to hold it in place. Remove any rusty nails from the stop beads and clean off any paint, caulk and old cord traces around the sash groove.
To open the window pull one of the cords that run through the sash. Once you've pulled it to the maximum extent it can be then mark the cord with a pencil and cut it into length with an utility knife. Once you're done, make sure that the new cord is aligned with the groove of the sash. Also, secure it to the sash using the knot.
If the sash still isn't moving, you can cut the cords using your side cutters. When the sash is completely free you'll need to take off the access panel inside the sash channel to expose the pockets of sash weights, counterweights, and the pulley system. If the window has been painted, you will need to score the seams with either a hammer or chisel, to take off the panel without damaging it.
Once you've removed the access panel, you can see the two cast-iron sash sash weights in each pocket. Take the weights off the back and front and tie the sash cords to the weights with self-tightening knot. Once you have tied the new cords, reattach the sashweights and set the system to function properly.
Drafts
Sash windows add a touch of historical charm to older homes, but they also pose maintenance challenges. They can be difficult or even impossible to open and close with a smooth, quiet operation. They can also be rattled by wind, and letting drafts in. These issues can be caused by swollen or painted wood or sash cords that are rotten. There are many easy and cost-effective ways to repair these issues and keep your windows operating effectively.
Disassembling an old sash is the first step in repairing it. Remove the sash, as well as the frame, and check that all components are in good condition. Then, sand down the wood to improve its appearance and to prevent drafts. A small amount of wax or silicone spray can help the sash slide more easily. If the sash remains stuck, use a knife to cut through any paint layers and free it. A new set of tilt pins can improve the window's performance.
Weights are pushed across a pulley system to balance the weight of windows with sash. These weights, which are typically made of cast iron, can be accessed through an access panel or pocket within the lining of the box. A dividing strip is put within the window frame to stop the weights from colliding.
Accessing these weights is tricky, as the upper sash is sealed and is nailed into the correct position. However, if you are patient and careful you can easily remove the sash using bar clamps that are reversed and disperse, to ease it out of the groove in the meeting rail. You may have to jiggle and tap to free it however, once it's gone, inspect the sash and replace it if necessary with a new rope.
While you're at it you can also replace the balance of the sash to make it easier to open and close. It's much easier than you imagine to replace a double-hung window balance. You can do it yourself if you have the right tools and a replacement kit.
Rotten sill
Even the best-maintained windows can eventually begin to show signs of rot. If the rot is only limited to the sill, it could be possible to fix the window. If the rot has gotten into the frame and into the interior, and has damaged structural elements, it may be time to replace the window.
If you've got rotten sill, you must to replace it before it causes damage to your window. The first step is to remove the old sill plates and studs. You may need to install temporary support when the studs are weighing. After removing sash lock door handles and cleaning any remaining paint from the sill plate. When the sill is clean and dry, replace it with a new board and attach it to the studs.
A rotten sill may be ugly and cause future costly repairs. For example, it can cause the sash to move which is difficult to notice and can lead to a cracked or bowed glass pane. A rotten sill may also allow water to get into the wall and cause mold.
It's not as difficult as you think to fix a damaged sill. It is vital to maintain the window to prevent rot, so you should regularly clean the windows' tracks and sashes to keep them clear of dirt and debris. You should also apply a protective seal to the frames of your windows to protect them from moisture. Lastly, you should use a dehumidifier to regulate the moisture levels within your home, which will stop wooden sashes from swelling or sticking.
Sticky sashes are a frequent issue with windows made of sash. To resolve them you can apply small amounts of wax or silicone spray to the tracks of your windows to help them slide more easily. If the sashes are stuck due to paint buildup, you can use a utility knife to cut through the layers of paint and free the sashes.
Reinstalling the parting bead is another option to fix a stuck sash. If the sash still sticks, you can try to draught proof it. This process involves placing a rubber strip in the gaps between the frame and the sash that reduces air flow and improves the acoustic performance of the window.