Tips For Sash Window Repair
Sash windows that rattle or leak need to be fixed. Draughts, decaying woods, misaligned rails, and sashweights are all things that require attention.
Pam first covers each pane with a layer of glazing. She then secures the glass with glaziers' points instead of pins to prevent breakage.
Weather Stripping
Weather stripping is a thin flexible strip of fabric used to seal the edges of windows and doors when they are closed. It blocks outside air as well as the contaminants it contains. It prevents drafts from entering the gaps and making your home too cold or letting outside noise through. You can purchase ready-to use material in different sizes or cut it to fit window sashes.
For single-hung windows apply the strip between the joining rail and sash, and between the upper and lower sashes. Install the same strips along the frame side to stop rattle.
Double-hung windows need two sets of weather strips two on each side. It is possible to add strips within the frame at the bottom. The strips stop the window from slamming shut, and they also stop dust and insects from blowing through the gap between the jamb and sash.
Before putting in the weather stripping, wash the sash frames with mild soap and water, then dry them using a cloth. Remove any paint that is old and caulk the interior stops with a utility knife. Make use of a putty blade to shield the frame and take care to pry the stops away. Replace the weather stripping.
The new weather stripping must be flexible enough to allow for the sash's movement, yet firm enough to stay in place when it is closed. Adhesive-backed foam tape is a popular choice. It is easy to use and is available in various thicknesses. Additionally, you can use door sweeps that are available in a wide range of sizes and designs to fit a variety of windows and doors.
Compare the metal tabs of the new sash with the tabs on your old sash before you install it. If the tabs have a different shape, they will not fit into the slot on the window frame in the correct way and you'll need to take the sash off and begin again. Individual sash replacements don't cost a lot and a complete window replacement won't be a costly disaster.
Sash Cords
If you're replacing sash cords, begin by removing the parting beads - thin strips of wood separating the inner and outside frame of the window. It is possible that they are nailed to the frame with a hammer, but a nail set can do the trick. You'll need to lay down an tarp since window cleaning with sash is messy. You could also damage paint or rotting wood in older homes. Also wear a mask, since dust could contain lead.
Then take out the upper cord and sash. If you are not replacing the cords, cut them off and tie them in knots to stop them from pulling through the holes. If you're replacing them, remove the nail that holds each cord to the sash. Then, pull out the nails that hold each cord to the sash. Then, if the pockets on either side of the frame are in place, take them out with the hammer and nail set, or with the help of a Crowbar. You'll probably have to scrape out some of the old sash cord material as well.
You can remove the outer sash once the pockets are opened. You'll be able to observe the channels that the sash cords pass through on each side. Use cotton sash cords if you're replacing them. Cotton ropes last longer than synthetic cords, which stretch and sag. You'll also need to make sure you have the proper amount of weight for each sash. To ensure this, you can weigh the sashes with a kitchen scale. The weights should be approximately half the size of the sash.
Reset the tilt pin, if it's still in position. You'll need to lift your sash up slightly to do this, so make sure not to let it fall. After that, lock the pin. Then, you can install an additional sash weight (the tube that holds the weights) and you're finished! (Don't forget to inspect and lock the tilt pin on the top sash.)
Parting Beads
The parting beads (vertical strips of wood that hold the lower sash) and the staff bead form an integral part of a sash's window. They help to retain the weights of sash windows, prevent water from entering and create an enclosure between the inner and outer boxes. If they are damaged or in poor condition they could cause excessive rattle and draughts.
Use a sharp knife to slice along any paint joint between the parting bead and the frame of the box window. Look for screws or nails before gently removing the beads out of their narrow grooves. They are designed to fit comfortably however they could have been nailed into place. It is also necessary to take off any sash cords that are secured shut and should be tied in knots to stop them dropping when released.
After removing the parting bead then you can take out the lower sash from both sides and remove the meeting bar (which overlaps with the bottom sash in a double-hung sash). The meeting rail can be lifted clear of the frame, allowing you to open the window panes.
You can clean the sash windows and re-attach any sash furniture/ironmongery, lubricate the pulley axles & test the operation of the window. If it is difficult to open or lower the window, it's worth considering alternative sash window balance systems that are which are discussed in a separate article.
Apply draught strips and paint the frames of the sash windows (with an oil-based primer of good quality). Alternately, sand them down to a smooth finish and then apply multi-purpose putty. Apply a small amount of "fronting putty' where the glazing rebates meet with the internal sash upstand of the sash. In the front of the putty with a fillet to create a smooth edge. Finish by a few millimeters lower than the sightline. Replace the sash cords, re-tie knots if needed and hang the window. You may want to consider using white 6mm cord or braided marine rope since it lasts longer than the cheap cords that stretch over time. This will also make it easier to close the sash windows by cutting down the distance between the frame and the window.
Glass
Most homeowners don't consider the mechanics of their windows. They are just happy when they work well and keep the air inside and outside air out. Sash windows can be expensive to replace or repair in the event of problems. There are several ways to save money on window installation, without having to purchase new windows.
One alternative is to have window sash replaced with similar-looking designs repair double glazed windows that match the style of your home's period. Laminated glass can shield your family against broken glass shards, and can reduce the transfer of ultraviolet rays. You can also select patterns or texture glass. This can provide privacy while permitting natural light to enter the space. Draught-proof strips are also available to improve the efficiency of your energy use and decrease noise pollution.
Most often, sash windows that are difficult to move up and down are not simply stuck, but have gotten warped over time. This could be due moisture accumulation and changing humidity that causes the wood to shrink and expand at different rates. As time passes, this can cause the sash to swell and become discolored and difficult to open and close.
The first step is to make sure the frames of sash are in good condition. If there is lots of moisture, and the wood is rotted or sagging, it's going to need to be repaired before anything else can be completed. This is a costly task that should be left to a professional window installers.
Once the frame for the sash is inspected the next step is to replace the glass pane. The sash can be left in place to do this, but it's easier to remove it and work on the table. First, you must remove any glazing points, as well as the glue that holds the glass in place. It is essential to wear protective clothing during the process. The worker can then cut the glass to fit and then install it in the frame using a special glazing tool. It is important to use the right tools to cut glass because of its toughness and that it is prone to cracking or shattering.