Window Sash Repairs
Most homeowners don't pay much attention to window sashes as long as they are able to open and close and keep the air inside and the air outside out. But with time, they can start to wear out, leading to drafts, air leaks, or even sashes sticking.
With a sash propped up on a DIY easel, the author works glazing points into a gap. He also scrapes paint off the frame and applies a wood preserver.
Sash Weights
If windows aren't opening and closing smoothly or are sticking the way they should, a malfunctioning counter-balancing system may be to blame. This could be due to a damaged or damaged chain/sash cord or an unattached or misaligned sash weight, or a damaged pulley.
The sashweights are small, rounded boxes made of cast iron that support the counter-weight system as well as support the sash. They are found in the bottom rails of every window frame and are covered with a wooden access panel which can be opened to reveal their location. These panels can be removed for access to the sash weight pockets to clean, repair or replacement.
If you've been using sash windows for a long time, it's likely that you have a problem with the sash weights that cause them to sag or catch. This can be due to the weights being too heavy (they are supposed to be slightly heavier than the top sash) or by having them installed incorrectly (some people disabled their weight systems by cutting them off and removing the weights to save money or turning them into scrap metal).
To fix this problem, first pull off the stops (the trim that runs along the inside edges of the window where it joins the frame and holds it in the frame) and then set them aside. This will require you to be gentle so as to not scratch the appearance of your overlapping rails. Then, you can employ a mallet or hammer to break up the stiles and rails and examine the rails for damage or any repairs that need to be made.
After inspecting the stiles and rails of the sash, put dust sheets on the floor and begin working. Begin by removing the wood pegs from the mortise and tenon joints using pins and a screwdriver or hammer. After the pegs have been removed then you can begin disassembling the sash by taking out the stop moldings for sash as well as removing any sash cord knots in place, and finally, removing the sash itself.
Next, you will need to weigh the sash to determine the amount of weight it will require for functioning. You can find old replacement sash weights online or in some home improvement stores, but be sure to buy the right size so as not to over or under weight the sash.
Sash Cords
The majority of sash window problems result from damaged or worn sash cords. The weights put pressure on the sash cords, which can cause them to break over time. upvc sash won't be able to open or close as easily when the cords break. The problem can be caused by a variety of factors like excessive force, aging, the lack of maintenance and moisture buildup. In the case of window sash repairs it is crucial to replace the old cords with new ones constructed from materials that last and resist moisture.
Begin by removing the interior stops, the thin strips of wood that keep the sashes in place, using a utility knife and a chisel. Pry the stops out of the sashes with care, and keep an eye out for any broken or cracked ones. After the stops have been removed, you can access the sash weights via an access panel that is cut into the bottom of the frame or by opening the jamb, and then removing the cover for the weight pocket.
It requires a bit of effort to reach the sash cords, but with the right tools and a little bit of patience it is not difficult. Get rid of the old cords first by cutting them in knots, and then pulling them out. Remove the sash and set it aside. After the sash has been removed then pull it back down on the staff bead (the nail that stops the sash from falling) and insert a nail about a foot long into the hole for the staff bead. This will keep the sash in place while you string counterweights.
After installing the upper sash and sash cords, reconnect them and make sure the sashes are properly balanced and move smoothly. Then, install the lower sash, and repeat the process, making sure that the sashes are seated and moving smoothly.
After you've finished installing counterweights, connect the sash cords by putting an sash cord into the pulleys and then threading the cord's other end through a knot hole inside the sash to secure it into place. Repeat this process on the opposite side of the sash, making sure that the sashes work as intended again.
Drafts and air leaks
Over time, the components that connect sash windows to the home's frame deteriorate which can cause drafts and energy loss. A thorough inspection will reveal the areas of concern and help you determine the best options for repairs to your window sash. Your personal preferences for comfort and your ability level determine whether you are able to manage window repair or require expert input. The historical status of your property and structural integrity concerns affect the scope of work required.
When cold air sneaks in through a drafty window your furnace is forced to work overtime to keep your home warm. This inefficiency can eat into your heating costs and reduces the effectiveness of your HVAC system. Drafts can also impact indoor air quality and cause discomfort in the home by bringing in allergens, pollutants and humidity from the outside.
A typical indication of a drafty window is the feeling of cold air entering your room regardless of all windows and doors being shut. Other indicators to look out for include fluctuations in the temperature of your room near the window and condensation around the frame or sill.
Fortunately, fixing drafty windows is a simple task that can reduce your energy costs and enhance indoor comfort. The first step is to look at the exterior of the window. Look for areas of bare caulking that is cracked or wood that exposes the window to cold air.
Examine the sash's interface to the frame including the parting bead and staff bead. Examine the condition of the weather stripping (felt strips or foam tape) at these points to determine if it's still intact and working. If not, it needs to be replaced.
Finally, consider the state of glazing putty, which is a tough putty that keeps panes of glass in place. Check for cracks or crumbling that expose the sash's surface to moisture which could cause mold problems and damage the windows' glass.
To fix the problem, apply a bed of fresh glazing putty on the inside of your window. Utilizing a flat-blade screwdriver push the glazing points into place to fix them. Then, wrap a piece of foam and a piece of fabric around each point to create an insulation layer against cold air.
Aesthetics
Window sash repair can give older windows a fresh look at a lower cost than a complete window replacement. Particularly for homeowners who have older homes, a full replacement could be a huge undertaking and a major financial commitment. Sometimes, repairing windows sashes can help restore the original appeal of a house and increase its value as well.
Keeping a close eye on the condition of your window sashes is important to prevent major problems. If you're not sure whether your windows require repair, it's recommended to have them assessed by an expert. A sash repair is much cheaper than replacing the entire window and will also help you save money on energy costs.
The first step is to lower the upper sash to the bottom. This is typically simple and will allow you to see the "parting beads" which are grooved bits on the meeting rails that keep the two sliding sashes apart. 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 by paint, so you need to be careful not to harm them or the sash.
After you've removed your parting beads, the next job is to take off the pockets. These are tiny pieces of wood that are screwed to the frame at the bottom. They permit access to the sashweights. After the nails are removed, you can move the sash up and down in order to make sure it moves in a smooth manner.
If it doesn't, there might 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 blend in well with modern or traditional interiors. They can also be customized, with many paint and stain options. Wooden windows require regular maintenance to avoid rot and damage.