Don't Forget Sash Windows Repair: 10 Reasons Why You No Longer Need It
Sash Window Repair
Sash windows add a classy design to homes. They can become drafty and difficult to repair as they get older. Repairs to windows with sash are a great method of improving functionality and maintaining the original appearance.
The first step to repairing windows with sash is to remove "pocket covers". These are tiny pieces of wood that are placed at the bottom of the frame and allow access to the weights.
Sashes damaged by abrasions
If your sash windows have been damaged or leaking air it is necessary to do more than just patch up the surface. Doing a thorough repair will save you money in the long run, especially when you live in an older home with poor insulation. Here are some common sash window problems and how to repair them:
Problems with Sticking
If the sash doesn't fit well within the frame it will be difficult to open or close the window. This could result in rattling sounds and allow drafts into your home.
To fix this issue, use a utility knife to cut the paint line on the inner side of the sash and remove it. Be careful not to scratch the wood. Then, you'll want to apply a sash oil that will help it move more smoothly.
Broken Sash Cords
In certain instances, the old double-hung sashes use either cotton or metal cords to support the weights that lift and lower the sashes. Over time, the cords may break, making it impossible to lift or keep the sash in place. To fix this, follow these steps:
Remove the sash from the frame and pull it to the right until it is completely open. Pull the cord from the bottom of the sash. Cut it, and then remove any nails that are protruding from the end. With needle-nosed pliers, take out the nail and place it into the side channel. Tuck the cord knot into the hole, and secure it using an nail set.
Install the staff beads and put them back in the sash. Make sure to leave enough slack on the cords to ensure proper operation. Then, you can reinstall the counterweights and balances. Decorators caulk is an excellent way to reduce the risk of draughts. Apply a small amount between the bead boxes for staff.
Glazing putty is a great option to fix the sash after it has been repaired. Glazing putty is made with linseed and chalk. Mix with enough chalk to make the putty workable and not stick to your fingers. Allow replacement sash windows to dry completely before reinstalling the sash, or painting the frame.
Broken sash cords
Old double-hung (two sashes) windows are made of cords of cotton or chains of metal that are attached to counterweights that support and keep the sashes in balance within the window jamb. As time passes, the cords may break, preventing the sashes from opening or closing and makes it difficult to raise or lower the window. The cords of the sash can be replaced in less than an hour.
Begin by removing the staff bead, which separates the lower and upper sashes. A nail is usually driven through the knot and then into the sash's casing to keep the bead in place, however, you should be capable of removing it with needle-nose pliers. Remove any rusty nail from the stop beads, and then clean the caulk as well as the old cord residue and paint around the groove of the sash.
To open the window pull one of the cords running through the sash. When you've made it as far as you are able to mark the cord with a pencil and cut it with an ordinary knife. Once you're done, make sure that the new cord is in alignment with the groove of the sash. Also, secure it to the sash with a knot.
If the sash still isn't moving you can cut the cords using side cutters. Once the sash is free you'll need to take off the access panel within the sash channel to expose the pockets of sash weights, counterweights, and the pulley system. If the window is painted, you may have to cut the seams with an axe and chisel to remove the access panel without damaging the paint.
After removing the access panel, there are two cast-iron sashweights inside each pocket. Remove the weights from the front and back, then tie the sash cords to the weights using self-tightening knot. After you tie the new cords, you'll need to reconnect the sash weights and reset the pulley system to ensure that it is working correctly.
Drafts
Sash windows add a touch of the past to older homes but they also pose issues with their maintenance. They can be difficult or impossible to open and close, rattling in the wind, and letting drafts in. These problems could be caused by painted or swollen wood or sash cords that are rotten. There are a variety of affordable and cost-effective solutions to fix these issues and keep your sash windows working properly.
Disassembling an old sash is the first step to repair it. Remove the sash, as well as the frame, and check that all components are in good order. Then, sand the wood to improve its appearance and to prevent draughts. A small amount of wax or silicone spray can aid in allowing the sash to slide more easily. If the sash is stuck, use a knife to cut through any paint layers and remove it. A new set of tilt-pins can improve the window's performance.
A sash window functions by counterbalancing the weight of the glass by using weights passed over a pulley mechanism. The weights are typically cast iron and can be reached via an access panel or pocket cover that is located within the lining of the box of the window frame. To prevent the weights from crashing down, an dividing strip is hung within the frame to ensure they do not collide.
It isn't easy to access these weights, as the upper sash can be sprayed shut and fixed with nails. However, if you are diligent and cautious you can take off the sash with a pair of bar clamps, reversed to disperse, to ease it out of its groove in the rails that meet. You may have to tap and jiggle to release it, but once it's out you can inspect the sash and replace it with new rope.
You can also alter the balance of the sash to make it easier to open and close the window. Replacing the balance of a double-hung sash is much easier than it is and you can do it yourself using the right tools and a replacement kit.
Rotten sill
Even the best-maintained windows will eventually exhibit signs of rot. If the rot is only affecting the sill of the window, it might be possible to restore it. If the rot has spread to the frame and even into the interior and has damaged structural parts it could be time to replace the window.
If you have a rotten sill, it is important to replace it before it causes further damage to your window. The first step is to take off the sill plate that was previously installed and studs. If the studs are load bearing, you may need to install temporary supports. After taking the old sill off and cleaning any remaining paint from the sill plate. After cleaning the sill then replace it with the new one and then nail it into the studs.
A rotten sill may be unsightly and lead to costly repairs in the future. For instance, it could cause the sash to move, which can be difficult to notice and can cause cracks or bowed glass pane. A sill that is rotten may allow water to enter the wall and cause mold.
Replacing a sill that is rotten is not as hard as it sounds. To stop rot, you must keep the window free of debris and dirt. Also, you should apply a protective seal to the window frames to guard them from moisture. Additionally, you should utilize a dehumidifier to control moisture levels within your home, which will stop wooden sashes from swelling or sagging.
Sticky sashes are a frequent problem with sash windows. To fix them you can apply small amounts of silicone spray or wax to the tracks of your windows to help them slide more easily. If the windows are stuck due to the buildup of paint, you can employ a utility knife to cut through the layers of paint and release the sashes.
Another way to solve stuck sash issues is to put back in the parting bead. If the sash is still stuck, you can try to draught proof it. This involves putting a strip of rubber between the sash frame and sash. This will reduce airflow and improves the acoustic properties.