Window Sash Repairs
Many homeowners don't care about window sashes so long as they are able to open, close, and keep outside air out and the air inside in. But over time, they'll get worn out, causing air leaks, drafts, or even sticking sashes.
With a sash propped on a DIY easel and a glass, the artist creates glazing points into gaps. He also scrapes paint off the frame and then applies wood preserver.
Sash Weights
If your windows aren't opening and closing with ease or are sluggish, a faulty counterbalancing system could be the cause. This can occur because of a broken or damaged sash chain or cord as well as a misaligned or unattached sash weight, or a damaged pulley.
The sash weights are tiny boxes, typically made of cast iron, that support the sash and support the counter-weight system in the window. They are situated in the bottom rails of every window frame, covered by a wooden access panel that can be removed to reveal their position. The panels can be removed for access to the weight pockets in the sash to clean, repair or replacement.
If you've used sash windows for a period of time, you may have an issue with the weights on the sash that cause them to sag or catch. timber sash windows can be too heavy (they should be a little heavier than the top sash), or installed improperly.
To correct this issue, first pry off the stops (the trim along the inside edges of the window where it meets the frame and holds it in place) and then set them aside. You'll need to do this with care so as to not damage the profile of the meeting rails. Then you can employ a mallet or hammer to break up the stiles from the rails and inspect them for damage or any repairs that require to be done.
After you've checked the rails and stiles, lay down a few dust sheets and begin working on the sash itself. Start by taking the wood pegs out of the mortise and the tenon joints using pin punches and a screwdriver or hammer. Once the pegs are gone then you can begin disassembling the sash by taking out the stop moldings for sash, pulling off any sash cord knots attached and, finally, removing the sash itself.
Next you will want to weigh the sash and determine how much weight is required for its proper operation. You can find vintage weights for replacement on the internet or in some home improvement stores, but you should ensure that you purchase the right size to ensure not to under or over weigh the sash.
Sash Cords
The majority of sash window problems result from broken or worn sash cords. The weights put constant pressure on the sash cords which can cause them to break over time. The sashes will not open or close as easily if cords break. The problem may be caused by excessive force, ageing, lack of maintenance, or the buildup of moisture. It is essential to replace the old cords during window sash repairs with new cords made of a material that is durable and resistant to moisture.
Begin by removing the inner stop strips, thin wood strips that hold the sashes into the frame with a utility knife and a Chisel. Remove the stops off the sashes with care and keep an eye out for any broken or cracked ones. 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 then removing the cover for the weight pocket.
It takes a little extra work to reach the sash cords but with the right tools and a little bit of patience it is not difficult. Remove the old cords first by cutting them at their knots, then pulling them out. Remove the sash and set it aside. When the sash is removed then pull it back down on the staff bead (the nail that keeps the sash from falling) and insert a nail about 1 foot into the hole for the staff bead. This will hold the sash on its place while you string counterweights.
Reattach the sash strings following installing the upper sash. Make sure that the sashes are moving smoothly and are balanced. Then, reinstall the lower sash and repeat the process, checking that the sashes are correctly seated and moving smoothly.
Reattach the sash cable after you have put in the counterweights. Thread the cord through the pulleys and then through the knot hole on the sash. Repeat the process for each side of the sash until all cords are replaced and the sashes function normally again.
Drafts and Air Leaks
Over time, the materials that connect your sash window to the frame of your house begin to deteriorate. This can cause drafts and energy losses. A thorough inspection will reveal the problem areas and assist you in determining the options for fixing your window sash. Your personal preferences for comfort and your experience level determine whether you are able to manage window repair or require expert input. The historical status of your property and structural integrity concerns also affect the scope of work necessary.
When cold air sneaks in through a sluggish window, your furnace has to work overtime to keep your house warm. This inefficiency increases your heating expenses, and can compromise the efficiency of your HVAC system. Drafts can also reduce the quality of indoor air and affect indoor comfort by the infiltration of allergens, pollutants and humidity from outside.
A typical sign of a drafty window is the sensation of cold air entering your room despite all doors and windows being closed. Other indicators to look out for include a fluctuation in the temperature of your home near the window and condensation around the frame or sill.
It is good to know that fixing drafty windows is a simple job that can lower your energy bills and improve the indoor comfort. First, look at the outside of the window. Check for wood that isn't bare and areas where the old caulking has cracked, exposing the gap to cold air.
Examine the sash's connection to the frame, including the parting bead and staff bead. Examine the condition of weather stripping in these areas (felt strips or tape) to determine if they're intact and functional. If not, it's time to be replaced.
Also, take note of the condition of glazing putty, a hard putty that holds panes glass in place. Examine for cracks and crumbling that could expose the sash's exterior 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 correct the issue. To fix the glazing points, use a flat-bladed screwdriver to push them into position. Wrap a fabric or piece and foam around each point. This acts as insulation against cold air.
Aesthetics
Window repair can give old windows a fresh new look with less expense than a complete window replacement. Particularly for those with older homes, a complete replacement can be a big project and a significant cost. Repairing window sashes is a great way to restore the beauty of your home and value.
It is crucial to pay attention to the condition and wear of window sashes in order to avoid major problems. If you're unsure whether your windows are in need of repair, it's recommended to have them evaluated by a professional. A sash repair could be less expensive than replacing the entire window and will also help you save money on energy costs.
The first step is to lower the upper sash towards the bottom. This is usually simple and will allow you to get an excellent view of the "parting beads" (these are grooved bits in the meeting rail on either side that keep the 2 sliding sashes separate). You can remove them using the blade of a small bar or a putty knife - they are typically nailed in the right place and are covered with paint, so you have be careful not to scratch them or the sash.
After you have removed the parting beads, you'll need to take off the covers for your pockets. They are tiny pieces of wood that are screwed into the frame at the bottom. They provide access to the sashweights. Once the nails are removed you can move the sash upwards and downwards in order to make sure it moves easily.
If it doesn't, there may be a problem with the counterweights or the sash cords. After you've checked them all, you can fix them if you need to.
Wooden windows look beautiful and natural. They work well with modern or traditional interiors. The staining and painting options are endless. Wooden windows require regular maintenance in order to avoid rot and damage.