Window Sash Repairs
The majority of homeowners don't pay attention to window sashes, as long as they are capable of opening and closing and keep the air inside and the air outside out. But with time, they'll get worn out, leading to drafts, air leaks or even sashes that stick.
With a sash propped on a DIY easel, the author works glazing points into a gap. He also scrapes paint off and applies a wood 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 may be to blame. It could be caused by a damaged or missing sash chain, a misaligned or unattached sashweight, or a broken or cracked pulley.
The sashweights are tiny boxes made of cast-iron, which balance the counter-weight system as well as support the sash. They are located in the bottom rails of each window frame, covered by a wooden access panel that can be removed to reveal their location. The panels can be removed for access to the sash weight pockets to clean, repair or replacement.
If you've used sash window s for a period of time you likely have a problem with sash weights that cause them to sag or catch. This can be due to the weights being too heavy (they are supposed to be a little heavier than the top sash) or by having them installed in a way that isn't correct (some people have disabled their weight systems by cutting them off and removing the weights to save money or turn them into scrap metal).
To remedy this issue, remove the stops (the trim that runs along the inside of the window at the point where it meets the frame to keep it in place). Put them away. This requires you to be careful so as to not scratch the profile of your meeting rails. Then you can use a hammer or mallet to separate the rail and stiles and check them for damage or any repairs that need to be made.
After you've checked the rails and stiles, lay down some dust sheets and begin working on the sash itself. Start by removing wood pegs with a pin-punch and hammer or screwdriver from the mortise-and tenon joints. After removing the pegs you can begin disassembling the sash. Take off the sash stop moldings as well as any sash cords that are still attached.
The next step is to weigh the sash in order to determine the amount of weight is required for the proper functioning. You can purchase vintage replacement sashweights online or in some home improvement stores. Be sure to get the right size to avoid under or over-weighing the sash.
Sash Cords
Sash cords that are worn or broken can lead to sash window issues. Sash cords are constantly under pressure from the weights, which can cause them break over time, particularly if they're not properly maintained. If the cords break, the sashes won't be able to open and close easily. The problem can be caused by a number of things, including excessive force, aging, a lack of maintenance and moisture buildup. It is essential to replace the old cords during window sash repairs with new ones made of materials that are durable and resistant to moisture.
Start by removing the internal stop strips, the thin wood strips which hold the sashes in place with a utility knife and a chisel. Carefully pry the stops off of the sashes, keeping an eye on any that are cracked or broken. After removing the stops you can gain access to the sashweights by opening up the jamb or removing the weight pocket.
Accessing the sash's cords requires a little more work but it's not a problem with the right tools and perseverance. Remove the old cords first by cutting them in knots, and then pulling them out. Remove the sash and place it aside. After the sash has been removed, pull down on the staff bead (the nail that keeps the sash from falling) and insert the nail, which is about a foot long into the staff bead hole. This will keep the sash on its place while you string counterweights.
After reinstalling the upper sash then reattach the sash cords and ensure that the sashes are properly balanced and move smoothly. Then, install the lower sash and repeat the process, ensuring that the sashes are seated and moving smoothly.
Once you've completed installing the counterweights, reconnect the sash cords by putting the sash cord through the pulleys and threading the other end of the cord through a knot hole inside the sash to secure it into the correct position. Repeat the procedure for each side of the sash until the cords are replaced and the sashes are functioning normally.
Air leaks and drafts
Over time, the components that connect sash windows to the home's frame deteriorate, resulting in drafts and energy loss. A thorough inspection can identify problems and help you choose your window sash repair options. Your level of comfort and skill level will determine whether you are able to self-manage or require assistance from a professional for window repair. The scope of work is also affected by the historic status of the property and its structural integrity.
If cold air enters through a drafty window, your furnace is forced to be working overtime to keep your home warm. This inefficiency is a drain on your heating expenses and reduces the efficiency of your home's HVAC system. Moreover, drafts disrupt your indoor comfort and can degrade indoor air quality by forcing in outdoor pollutants, allergens and humidity.
A drafty window can be identified by the sensation of cold air rushing into the room, even if all windows and doors are shut. Other indicators to look out for include a fluctuation in the temperature of your room near the window, and condensation around the frame or sill.
Repairing drafty windows is a a simple task, which will reduce your energy bills and increase your comfort in the home. First, look at the outside of the window. Look for bare wood and areas where the old caulking has cracked, opening the gap to cold air.
Examine the sash's interface with the frame, including the parting bead and staff bead. Examine the condition of weather stripping (felt strips or foam tape) at these locations to determine if they are intact and effective. If not, this needs to be replaced.
Also, take note of the condition of glazing putty. It is a hard putty that holds panes of glass in place. Check for cracks or crumbling that expose the sash to moisture which can lead to mold issues and even damage the glass of windows.
To fix the problem, apply a layer of fresh glazing putty on the inside of your window. With a flat-blade screwdriver push the glazing points into position to hold them. Wrap a piece or fabric and foam around each point. This will act as an insulation against cold air.
Aesthetics
Window repair can give old windows a new look at a lower cost than an entire window replacement. Particularly for homeowners with older homes, a complete replacement can be a big project and a significant cost. Repairing window sashes can be an excellent way to bring back a home's original beauty and value.
Keeping a close eye on the condition of windows sashes is crucial to avoid major issues. It is recommended to speak with an expert if uncertain about whether your windows require repair. The cost of repairing a sash is usually lower than the expense to replace the entire window, and can reduce your energy bills in the process.
The first step is to lower the upper sash to the bottom. This is generally simple and allows you to see the "parting beads", which are a grooved part on the meeting rails that keep the two sliding sashes apart. Remove these with the blade of a small pry bar or a putty knife - they are normally nailed in place and stuck by paint, so you need be careful not to harm them or the sash.
Once you've removed the parting beads, the next job is to remove the pocket covers. These are tiny pieces of wood which are fixed into the frame at the bottom. They allow access to the sashweights. After they have been removed, the sash may be moved between the two sides to ensure that it moves in a smooth manner.
If it doesn't, it might be an issue with the counterweights, or the sash cords. After you've checked them all, you can repair them if you need to.
Wooden windows have a natural look that blends seamlessly with modern and traditional style interiors. They can also be customized with a wide range of paint and stain options. Wooden windows require regular maintenance in order to prevent damage and rot.