Sash Window Repair
Sash windows add a touch luxury to any house. However, they can also be drafty and uncomfortable due to age or wear. Repairing double glazed sash windows cost is a great way to increase the functionality and maintain the original appeal of your windows.
The first step in fixing sash windows 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.
Damaged sashes
If your windows' sash are damaged or leaky it is necessary to do more than just repair the surface. Doing a thorough repair will save you money in the long run, especially if you have a older home with poor insulation. Here are some typical problems with sash windows and the best way to repair them:
Stuck Issues
It will be difficult to shut or open the window if the sash does not fit tightly into the frame. This could result in rattling sounds and let drafts in your home.
To resolve this you can use a utility knife to cut the paint line on the inner side of the sash, then remove it. Be careful not damage the wood. Then, you'll want to apply a sash oil that will help it move more easily.
Broken Sash Cords
Some old double-hung sashes have cotton or metal cords that support the weights used to lift and lower the sashes. As time passes, these cords could break, making it difficult to lift the sash and keep it up. To fix this, follow these steps:
Remove the frame sash 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 sticking out from the end. With needle-nosed pliers, remove the nail and then insert it into the side channel. Tuck the cord knot into the hole and secure it with a nail set.
Install the beads on the staff and then put them back in the sash. Be sure to leave plenty of slack on the cords to ensure that they are in good working order. Then, you can reinstall the balances and counterweights. Decorators caulk is a great method to minimize draughts. Apply small amounts between the staff bead box.
Glazing putty is a great option to fix the sash after it has been repaired. Glazing putty is made of linseed oil and chalk. 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 and painting the frame.
Broken sash cords
To support and balance the sashes in old double-hung windows (two sashes) chains or cotton cords are tacked to counterweights. Over time, the chains could break and block the sashes to open 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.
Take off the staff bead, which separates the upper from lower sashes. You can remove the bead using needle-nose pliers. A nail is driven through the knot and into the casing of the sash to hold it in place. 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 through the sash. When you've made it as far as you can mark the cord with a pencil and cut it with an utility knife. After you've finished, make sure that the new cord is in alignment with the groove on the sash. Also, tie it to the sash with the knot.
If the sash is still too high to move then you can use your sharp side cutters to cut and remove the old cords. Once the sash has been removed it is necessary to remove the access panel within the sash channel, which will expose the pockets of sash weights, counterweights, and the pulley system. If the window is painted you might need to score the seams with a hammer and chisel to remove the access panel without damaging the paint.
After you have removed the access panel you will find two cast-iron sashweights inside each pocket. Remove the weights from the back and front and then connect the sash cords to the weights with a self tightening knot. After tying the new cords, you'll need connect the sash weights again and reset the pulley mechanism to ensure it functions properly.
Drafts
Sash windows add a bit of history to older homes, however, they also pose maintenance challenges. They can be difficult to open and close and can rattle in the wind, and let drafts in. These issues are usually caused by swelling of the wood or paint buildup, or the sash cords have begun to rot. There are a variety of affordable and cost-effective solutions to address the problem and keep your windows operating effectively.
The first step in repairing an old sash window is disassembling it. Take off the sash and frame, and ensure whether all parts are in good condition. Sand down the wood to make it look better and prevent drafts. A small amount silicone spray or wax can help the sash move more easily. If the sash is still stuck to the wall, use a utility knife to cut off any paint layers. Adding a new set of tilt pins can also help improve the window's performance.
Weights are placed over pulleys in order to balance the weight of the sash window. The weights are typically cast iron and are accessed from an access panel or pocket cover that is located in the inner box lining of the frame. To stop the weights from crashing down, a dividing strip is suspended within the frame to ensure that they do not collide.
Accessing these weights can be difficult, since the upper sash is sealed and is nailed into the position. If you're cautious and patient, you can pull the sash out by using a pair of bar clamps spread apart. You may need to tap and jiggle to free it, but once it's out examine the sash and replace it if necessary with new rope.
You can also change the balance of the sash to make it easier to open and shut the window. It's much easier than you think to replace the double-hung balance on a window. You can do it yourself if you have the right tools and a replacement kit.
Rotten sill
Even the best-maintained windows can eventually exhibit signs of rot. If the rot is restricted to the sill, it may be possible to restore the window. If the rot has spread through the frame and even into the interior, and has damaged structural elements it could be time to replace the window.
If you've found a decayed sill, it is important to replace it before it causes damage to your window. The first step is to remove the old sill plate and studs. If the studs are load bearing they may require you to put in temporary supports. After removing the old sill and washing off any paint remaining from the sill plate. After the sill has been cleaned then replace it with a new board and nail it to the studs.
A rotten sill is not just unsightly but it could also lead to expensive repairs in the future. For instance, it could cause the sash's to shift which is difficult to spot and could result in a cracked or bowed glass pane. A rotten sill may also allow water to get into the wall and cause mold.
Replacing a damaged or rotting sill isn't as difficult as it sounds. It is essential to keep the window well-maintained to prevent rot, so you must regularly clean the window tracks and sashes to keep them free of dirt and other debris. Install a seal of protection on the frames of your windows to keep them dry. Additionally, you should utilize a dehumidifier to control moisture levels within your home, which can prevent wooden sashes from swelling or sagging.
Sashes that stick are a common issue with windows made of sash. It is possible to fix this issue by applying a small amount of silicone or wax to the tracks of your windows. This will allow them to slide along more easily. If the sashes have become stuck due to paint buildup you can use a utility knife to cut the paint layers and free the sashes.
Another method to fix a stuck sash is to reinstall the parting bead. If the sash still sticks it is possible to try draught proofing it. This involves placing a strip of rubber between the frame of the sash and the sash. This will reduce airflow and improves acoustic qualities.