Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can become seriously damaged over time. While cosmetic damage may require a replacement, functional problems with a window like draughts and rattles indicate the repair of sash windows is in order.
Steam the sash to loosen it. Then, remove the wood pegs using pin punches and hammers. Mark and identify all components to ensure they can be replaced properly.
Wood that is damaged or broken
The wood that is not properly treated can damage the brickwork around the window and cause damage to plaster. It's important to know that this issue can be repaired without having to replace the window.
The first thing to be taken care of is to make sure that the timber in question is dry. Examine the colour and grain of the wood to see whether it's dry. If the wood is brittle and brown, this indicates that it's very likely that rot has already started to begun to develop. It is also important to determine if the sash is being held in place by a variety of spliced timber sections, and that they are solid and not impacted by damp.
Another issue that is common is moisture getting trapped in the corners of the frames for sash. If this is the case, it can cause sash to become tangled and become difficult to open. To fix this issue clean the sash channel thoroughly and remove any obstructions using a sharp chisel made of wood. Once the sash channel has been cleared clear of any debris, it can be primed to avoid any damp issues.
Also, it's worth looking at the wood used to make up the window frame. It's best to use timber that has a similar color and grain pattern as the wood pieces that are already in use, otherwise it may be difficult to blend the joins together. It is also possible to think about applying a wood preservative which will help keep the wood in good shape and prevent decay.
If the timber of your sash window is severely damaged and rotten it could be beneficial for you to replace it completely. It is crucial to choose an alternative window that is that is the same style as the windows you have in place to ensure that they will look as great once they're installed. Choosing UPVC over timber for instance, can reduce the value of your house as potential buyers may believe that you're ignoring the traditional design.
Faulty Sash Hardware
A sash is designed to move smoothly, however wood rot or other problems can affect its performance. A poorly functioning window may cause drafts to the home, and also the loss of energy efficiency. If you leave a sash-window unattended it will begin to wear out faster. This can shorten its lifespan significantly and may cause water or moisture infiltration.
If a sash window isn't functioning properly it can be a frustrating experience and difficult to determine the root of the issue. The good news is, in many instances, a replacement sash might be the solution. Replace one or both of the windows if the problem is due to rotting wood, misalignment or imbalance.
Replacing a single window sash is less expensive than replacing the frame and glass. It's also a less complicated project than installing new windows with double-hung frames, which require a greater amount of trims and components to be removed. You can start by looking at your current window and frame, if you are planning to replace the sash. You may notice gaps and issues that could cause the sash to tilt, and stop it from remaining upright.
In most cases, it's possible to repair the double-hung sash by cutting off the trim and working from the inside of the frame. First, you should take out the sash stops in the interior that create a track on the inside of the window at the bottom. To accomplish this, spray a hose with water and lightly mist the paint surface of the interior stop, then pull it off using a knife. Then, you can use a razor blade to cut off any nail heads protruding from the back of the stop.
If the home you live in doesn't have an access hole it is possible to create a new access hole by cutting a rectangular cut in the jamb liners of vinyl to the height of the stile for the sash. If the frame you have doesn't come with one, you can make an access hole by cutting a rectangle in the vinyl jamb liners to the height of the stile on the sash.
Faulty Sash Weights
The two weights that pull the sash upwards and down can become disconnected from one another over time, leading to the sash becoming jammed, or stuck in an open position. This is typically caused by broken or worn cords that pull the sash, which must be replaced.
It is important to apply dust sheets wherever possible during this project to keep debris or dirt from accumulating on your carpet or furniture. This is especially important if you plan to lift and move the window during work to prevent damage to any part of your home.
Begin by carefully removing each of the staff beads from the frame on either side with a small, wide chisel. You will see the groove that runs down each side of sash and ends with a hole for the new sashcord. Be sure to get rid of any knots in the old cord that have been screwed or nailed into the hole.
Now it's time to begin replacing the sash cords beginning with the top sash. To accomplish this begin by lowering the sash gently until it hits the bottom sill. Hold it up with the wood on either side of the frame. Otherwise it could fall on the floor, causing damage to the glass.
Then, you can remove the access panel from the frame to access the sash cord and sash weight. Once you have the sash weight, take the dado from the edge of wood and insert the nail to secure it. Use a nail long enough to reach the pocket of the sash otherwise it won't fit.
Once you have the weight set You can then replace the sash cord by feeding it through the hole. Then, push the sash over the rails, and down into the windowbox and check the way it opens and closes. If glass window repair need to, add more lubrication on the rails (we recommend silicone spray for vinyl, or candle wax for wooden sashes).
Replace both cords. Make sure they're of the same length so that when you remove one from the pin, it can fall through the sash and then rest at the pulley, allowing the sash function normally. Once the sash is re-hung it is then possible to re-attach the stop beads, and your sash is complete!
Glass damaged
A baseball, a broom, or a stone put out by a lawnmower can cause enough damage to the glass. Such shattered glass will allow water, snow, rain and insects to enter the home. In some instances the damage could require a complete replacement of the window. The installation of new windows can be a costly and time-consuming home improvement task. In most cases, replacing broken windows can be an easier and less costly alternative.
It is crucial to check the sash that is in use prior to making any attempt to replace the glass. This is a fantastic opportunity to discover any hidden areas where the wood is beginning to rot, or where glue, weather stripping and hardware have become damaged. By taking the time to conduct this test will save you from having to perform more work down the line.
After removing the glass it's an ideal idea to get the wood coated with a homemade wood preserver. Mix equal parts mineral spirits and linseed in order to make the wood preservative. Apply the mixture with a putty blade to the surface of sash and let it dry completely. This will ensure that the glass and sash will remain waterproof and long-lasting over time.
If the sash is in good shape it is possible to repair it without taking off the glass. The first step is to take off the window stop that is a vertical piece of wood located above the stiles in the window frame. It is typically secured using a small bar over a stiff-bladed putty knife. After the stop has been removed, it's possible to separate the rail and stiles with a soft-faced mallet or woodworking hammer in order to avoid damaging the profile of the sash. The next step is to remove the muntins. These are the vertical and horizontal pieces of wood that make up each pane of glass inside the Sash.
It's easy to replace broken glass once the muntins are removed. Insert the metal tabs from each new pane into the slots in the sash and then use glazing compound to hold them securely in place.