Sash Window Repair
Sash windows add a touch elegance to any home. They can become drafty and troublesome as they age. repairmywindowsanddoors to windows with sash can be a great option for improving functionality and maintaining the original elegance.
The first step in repairing sash windows is to take off the "pocket covers". These are small pieces of wood that sit in the lower part of the frame to allow access to the weights.
Damaged sashes
If your sash windows are damaged or leaking air and water, you'll need to do more than repair the surface. You will save money by performing a more thorough repair, especially if your home is older and has poor insulation. Here are some common problems with sash windows and the best way to fix them:
Stuck Issues
If the sash doesn't fit well within the frame it's difficult to open or close the window. This could cause a rattling sound and let drafts enter your home.
To repair this, you can use a utility knife to score and cut off the paint line on the interior side of your sash. Be careful not to harm the wood. Then, you'll need to apply a sash lubricant, which will allow it to move along smoothly.
Broken Sash Cords
Some double-hung sashes that are old have cotton or metal cords supporting the weights used raise and lower the sashes. Over time, the cords can break, rendering it impossible to lift or hold the sash in place. Follow these steps to fix it:
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. Remove the nail using needle-nose pliers and then reinsert it into the side channel. The knot of the cord should be tucked into the hole and secure it with a nail set.
Re-install the sash and then install the beads for staff. Be sure to leave slack in the cords for optimal operation. Install the counterweights and balances. To lessen the chance of draughts, a small amount of decorators caulk can be applied between the bead of the staff and the box.
Glazing putty can be used to repair the sash after it has been repaired. Glazing putty is made using chalk and linseed. Mix in enough of the chalk to make it workable, and not stick to your hands. Let the putty completely dry before reinstalling the sash or painting the frame.
Broken sash cords
To balance and support the sashes in old double-hung windows (two sashes) cotton cords or chains are attached to the 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 for sashes can be replaced in less than an hour.
Take off the staff bead, which divides the upper and lower sashes. You can remove the bead by using needle-nose pliers. Typically, a nail is inserted through the knot and into the sash's casing to hold it in place. Remove any rusty nail from the stop beads, and clean the caulk, old cord residue, and paint around the sash groove.
To open the window, pull one of the cords running through the sash to lift it up. When you've made it as far as you are able to mark the cord with a pencil and cut it using an ordinary knife. When you're done, ensure that the new cord lines up with the groove of the sash and that it's connected to the frame by knotting it.
If the sash is still too high to move it, you can use sharp side cutters to cut and eliminate the old cords. When the sash is completely free it is necessary to remove the access panel within the sash channel in order to expose the sash weight pockets, the counterweights, and the pulley system. If the window is painted, you may have to cut the seams using the hammer and chisel in order to remove the access panel without damaging the paint.
Once you've removed the access panel, you'll see the two sash weights made of cast iron inside each pocket. Remove the weights from the front and back, then connect the sash cords to the weights with a self-tightening knot. After you've tied the new cords, reattach the sashweights and set the system to function properly.
Drafts
Sash windows add a hint of the past to older homes but they also pose maintenance challenges. They can be difficult or even impossible to close and open and can be noisy in the winds, and letting drafts through. These issues could be caused by painted or swollen wood or sash cords that have rotted. There are a variety of easy and cost-effective ways to repair the problem and keep your windows operating properly.
The first step to repair an old sash window is to take it apart it. Remove the sash, and frame, and ensure whether all parts are in good condition. Then, sand down the wood to improve its appearance and prevent drafts. A small amount silicone spray or wax can make the sash glide more easily. If the sash remains stuck using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off any paint layers. A new set of tilt-pins could improve the window's performance.
Weights are pushed across a pulley system to balance the weight of a sash window. These weights, which are usually constructed of cast iron, are accessible via an access panel or pocket located in the inner lining of the box. To stop the weights from colliding, an dividing strip is hung within the frame to ensure they don't collide.
Accessing these weights is difficult as the upper sash is sealed and can be nailed in the correct position. However, if you're cautious and patient you can take off the sash by using a pair of bar clamps, reversed to disperse, to ease it out of the groove in the rails that meet. It could take a little bit of tapping and jiggling to pull it out but once you've got it removed, make sure to examine the sash cord and replace it with a new rope (not cotton) if necessary.
While you're at it, you can also change the sash balance to make it easier to open and close. Replacing the balance of a double-hung window is much easier than it sounds, and you can do it yourself with the proper tools and replacement kit.
Rotten sill
Even the best-maintained windows will eventually begin to show signs of decay. If the rot is only limited to the sill, it may be possible to fix the window. However, if it has gotten into the frame into the interior of the home and has damaged structural components, it is probably the right time to replace it.
If you've found a decayed sill, it is important to replace it before it causes further damage to your window. The first step is to eliminate the old sill plate as well as studs. If the studs bear loads they may require you to put in temporary supports. After taking off the sill, clean any paint left on the sill plate. After the sill has been cleaned then replace it with a brand new board and nail it to the studs.
A rotten sill can look ugly and could lead to future costly repairs. It could, for instance cause the sash, which is hard to spot to see, to move. This can result in cracks, bows or damaged glass pane. A sill that is rotten may allow water to enter the wall, causing mold.
It's not as difficult as it seems to fix a damaged sill. It is vital to maintain the window to avoid rot. Therefore, you must regularly clean the window tracks and sashes to keep them clear of dirt and debris. Apply a protective seal on the window frames to keep them dry. You can also use a humidifier to regulate the moisture in your home. This will stop wooden sashes sticking or swelling.
Sticky sashes are a frequent issue for windows with sash. To resolve them you can apply small amounts of wax or silicone spray to the tracks of your windows to allow them to slide more easily. If the sashes are stuck because of paint buildup, you could use a utility knife to cut through the layers of paint and release the sashes.
Reinstalling the bead that is parting is another way to repair a sash that is stuck. If the sash remains stuck, you could consider draught-proofing it. This involves placing a strip of rubber between the sash frame and sash. This will reduce airflow and improves the acoustic properties.