Window Sash Repairs
The majority of homeowners don't give much thought to window sashes, as long as they're capable of being opened and closed and keep the air inside and the outside air out. As time passes windows sashes wear out and cause drafts, air leaks or even sashes that are stuck.
The author uses the sash which is propped up on an easel to work the glazing points into the gap. He also scrapes paint off and then applies a wood preservative to the frame.
Sash Weights
If your windows aren't opening and closing smoothly, or are stuck the way they should, a defective counterbalancing system could be the reason. This can occur because of a broken or damaged chain/sash cord, an unattached or misaligned sash weight, or a broken pulley.
The sash weights are tiny boxes, typically made of cast iron, that support the sash and help balance the counter-weight system of the window. They are located in the bottom rails of every window frame, covered by a wooden access panel that can be removed to reveal their position. The panels can be removed for access to the weight pockets in the sash for cleaning, repairs or replacement.
There could be a problem with the sashweights, if you've had your windows with sash windows for a while. They might catch or lean. This could be due to the weights being too heavy (they are supposed to be slightly heavier than the top sash) or because they were installed incorrectly (some people disabled their weight systems by cutting them and taking the weights out to save money or turning them in for scrap metal).
To resolve this issue, remove the stops (the trim that runs along the inside edge of the window at the point where it meets the frame to hold it in place). Place them aside. This will require you to be gentle in order to not damage the shape of your meeting rails. Then you can employ a mallet or hammer to break the stiles and rails and examine them for damage or any repairs that require to be made.
Once you've inspected the rails and stiles, lay down some dust sheets and start working on the sash itself. Begin by removing the wood pegs with a pin-punch and hammer or screwdriver from the mortise-and tenon joints. Once the pegs are gone, you can begin to disassemble the sash by removing the sash stop moldings, pulling off the sash cord knots that are attached and, finally, taking the sash off itself.
The next step is to weigh the sash in order to determine how much weight is required for its proper operation. You can find vintage replacement sash weights online or at some home improvement stores, but be sure to purchase the right size to ensure not to overload or underweight the sash.
Sash Cords
Most sash window issues stem from worn or broken sash cords. The weights put pressure on the sash's cords which can cause them to break over time. If the cords break, sashes will no longer open and close easily. The issue could be caused by a variety of reasons, including excessive force, aging, the lack of maintenance, and the accumulation of moisture. It's important that you replace the old cords in window sash repairs with new ones made of materials that are strong and resistant to moisture.
Begin by removing the internal stops, the thin pieces of wood that keep the sashes in place using a knife or a Chisel. Pry the stops from the sashes carefully, and be on the lookout for cracked or broken ones. After removing the stops you can gain access to the sashweights by opening up the jamb or removing 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's not difficult. Take the old cords out first by cutting them at their knots, then pulling them out. Take the sash off and set it aside. After the sash has been removed then pull it back down on the staff bead (the nail that keeps the sash from falling) and insert a nail about one foot long into the hole in the staff bead. This will stop the sash from falling as you finish stringing the counterweights.
After reinstalling the upper sash then reattach the sash cords and ensure that the sashes are in a balanced position and move smoothly. Then, you can reinstall the lower sash and repeat the process, ensuring that the sashes are sitting and moving smoothly.
After you've installed the counterweights, reconnect the sash cords by placing an sash cord into the pulleys and then threading the other end of the cord through a knot hole in the sash to secure it in place. Repeat the process for each side of the sash until cords have been replaced and the sashes function normally again.
Air and Drafts Leaks
As time passes, the materials that seal sash windows to your home's frame deteriorate creating drafts and loss of energy. A thorough inspection can identify the problem areas and help you determine your window sash repairs options. Your level of comfort and skill level will determine whether you can manage yourself or need professional assistance with window sash repair. The scope of work required is also influenced by the historic status of the property and its structural strength.
If cold air is able to enter through a drafty window, your furnace is forced to be working overtime to keep your house warm. This inefficiency is a drain on your heating costs and reduces the efficiency of your HVAC system. Additionally, drafts can disrupt your indoor comfort and degrade the quality of your indoor air by bringing in outdoor pollutants, allergens, and humidity.
A typical indication of a drafty window is the sensation of cold air in your room despite all doors and windows being closed. Other signs to be aware of are an increase in temperature close to the window, as well as condensation around the frame or sill.
Fixing drafty windows is an easy task, and will reduce your energy bills and increase comfort inside. First, look at the exterior of the window. Find areas of unfinished caulking or broken wood, which exposes the window to cold air.
Examine the interface of the sash with the frame. sash window repairs near me includes the parting bead and the staff bead. Examine the condition of the weather stripping on these points (felt strips or tape) to determine if they are intact and effective. If not, it's time to be replaced.
Finally, consider the state of glazing putty, a hard putty that keeps panes of glass in place. Look for cracks or crumbling that expose the sash's surface to moisture which can cause mold issues and even damage the windows' glass.
Apply a new layer of glazing putty to the inside of the window to correct the problem. Using a flat-blade screwdriver, push the glazing points into place to hold 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 repair can give old windows a new look at a lower cost than an entire window replacement. Especially for homeowners who have older homes, a complete replacement could be a huge project and a significant financial commitment. In many cases, fixing window sashes can restore the original appeal of a house and add value to it as well.
Monitoring the condition of windows sashes is essential to avoid major issues. It's best to consult an expert if you're uncertain about whether your windows require repair. A sash repair is much cheaper than replacing the entire window. It will also help you save money on energy costs.
The first step is to lower the upper sash to the bottom. This is usually easy and will give you an excellent view of the "parting beads" (these are grooved bits in the rails that join either side that keep the two sliding sashes from colliding). Remove these with the blade of a small pry bar or a putty knife they are normally nailed in place and glued with paint, so you have to be careful not to harm them or the sash.
After removing the beads that separate, you will need to remove the pockets. These are bits of wood within the frame, low down, which allow access to the sash weights. They are usually attached with nails. They may also be snagged with paint, so it is important be extra cautious. After the nails have been removed then you can move the sash upwards and downwards in order to make sure it moves in a smooth manner.
If it doesn't, it could be problems with the counterweights or the sash cords. After you've checked all these, you can repair them as required.
Wooden windows have a natural beauty that blends in with both modern and traditional style interiors. They can also be made to be highly customizable, with many paint and stain options. Wooden windows require regular maintenance in order to keep them from rotting and damage.