Tips For Sash Window Repair
Sash windows that leak or rattle require repair. Draughts, decaying woods, misaligned rails and sashweights are all issues that require attention.
Pam first covers each pane with a layer of glazing compound. She then secures the glass using the glazier's points instead of pins to prevent breaking.
Weather Stripping
The weather stripping is a thin piece of material that protects the edges of windows and doors when they're closed, preventing out outside air and the dust it holds. It stops drafts from blowing through the gaps, making your home too cold or letting noise from outside in. You can buy ready-to-use weather stripping in rolls of various dimensions, or you can cut the material to size to fit the window sashes.
For single-hung windows, apply the strip between the joining rail and sash, and the same between the lower and upper sashes. Install the same strips along the frame side to stop the frame from rattling.
Double-hung windows need two sets of weather strips, one on each side. It is also possible to install strips inside the frame near the bottom. The strips stop the window from snapping shut, and they also stop insects and dust from blowing through the space between the sash and jamb.
Before putting in the weatherstripping, clean the sash frame with mild soap and warm water. Dry it using a soft cloth. Utility knife is used to take off any old caulk and paint from the inside of the stops. Use a putty blade to shield the frame and carefully pull the stops apart. Replace the weather stripping.
The new weather stripping should be flexible enough to let the sash move around freely, yet firm enough to remain in place when the sash is closed. Foam tape with a backing that is adhesive is a popular choice. It's simple to apply and is available in a variety of thicknesses to suit different needs. Door sweeps are available in many sizes and styles and can be put in on any type of window and doors.
Examine the metal tabs on the new sash to those on your old sash before you install it. If the tabs are a different shape, they will not fit into the slot on the window frame correctly and you'll have to remove the sash and start from scratch. The individual sash replacements won't cost much, so a total window replacement shouldn't be an expensive disaster.
Sash Cords
If you are replacing the sash cords, start by removing the outer parting beads - thin strips of wood that separate the inside and outside frame of the window. There's a chance that they're nailed in place however a hammer and nail set will do the trick. You'll need an tarp since window cleaning with sash is messy. It is also possible to disturb the wood or paint in older homes. Wear a mask since dust could contain lead.
Then take off the upper sash as well as its cords. If you're not adding new cords, cut the old ones, and tie them in a way that they won't pull through the holes in the sash. If you're adding new ones, first remove the nail that binds each one to the sash. Then remove the nails that hold each cord to the frame (the nails are referred to as glazier's points). Then, if the pockets on each side of the frame are in place, prise them out with a hammer and nail set, or with an crowbar. You will probably also have to remove some of the old sash material.
When the pockets are completely free, you can remove the sash's outer layer and you'll be in a position to see the channels on both sides of the frame where the cords for the sash go through. Make use of cotton sash ropes if you're replacing them. They will last longer than synthetic cords, that stretch and sag. You'll also have to ensure you have the proper amount of weight for each sash. To be sure you can weigh the sashes with an ordinary kitchen scale. The weights should equal roughly half of the size of each sash.
If the tilt pin at the bottom of the lower sash is still in place, reset it. You'll need to lift the sash slightly to accomplish this, so be careful not to let it fall. Then, lock the pin. Then, add an additional sash balance (the tube that holds the weights), and you're done! Don't forget to verify the tilt pin, and relock it on the upper sash.
Parting Beads
Parting beads (vertical wood strips holding the lower sash in place) and staff beads are both integral components of the Sash. They are used to support the weights of sash windows, prevent water from getting in and form a seal. If they're damaged or not in good condition, they could cause excessive draughts and rattle.
Use a sharp knife to cut through any paint junction between the parting beads and the frame of the box window. Check for any screws or nails prior to gently prying the parting beads from their narrow grooves. They are designed to fit snugly however they could have been nailed into place. Remove any sash cords that were nailed to the wall.
Once the parting bead is removed, it is possible to take the lower sash out and take the meeting rail (which overlaps the bottom sash in a double hung sash) from both sides. The meeting rail can be lifted clear of the frame, allowing to access 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 you have difficulty closing or lifting the window, it may be worth looking at alternative sash balance systems. They are discussed in a different article.
To make the sash windows weather proof again apply draught strip paint (with a high-quality oil-based primer). Alternatively sand down to smooth and re-apply multi-purpose putty. Apply a small amount fronting putty to the area where the glazing rebate meets the internal sash upstand and insert it into the putty using a fillet tool to create a smooth bevel. finish a few millimeters below the sightline. Replace the sash cords, tie knots if needed, and re-hang repair double glazed windows the window. Consider using white 6mm braided marine rope / cord since it lasts longer than cheap cords that stretch over time. This will also help you close the sash windows by cutting down the distance between the frame and the window.
Glass
Most homeowners don't take the time to spend much time thinking about the mechanical workings of their windows however they are thankful for windows that open and close easily and keep the air from outside out and the air inside in. Sash windows can be expensive to replace or repair when they have issues. There are a variety of ways to reduce the cost of window installation without having to buy new ones.
You can replace the glass in your sash windows with similar designs that complement the style of your home. Another option is to install laminated glass, which can help safeguard your family from broken shards of glass and minimize the transfer of UV rays. Other glass options include textured or patterned glass, which can be great for privacy and can let natural light into rooms. Draught-proof strips are also available to improve the efficiency of energy and reduce noise pollution.
It is not uncommon for windows with sash to become difficult to move because they have warped over the years. This could be due moisture accumulation and changing humidity, which causes the wood to shrink and expand at different rates. This can cause the sash to expand and then turn discolored. It may be a challenge to open and shut.
The first step is to ensure that the frame of the sash is in good shape. If there is an abundance of moisture and the wood is decayed or sliding, it will need to be repaired before anything else can be completed. This is a task for professional window installers, and can be quite costly.
Once the sash frame has been inspected and inspected, the next step is to replace the glass pane. This can be done while the sash remains in place, however it is simpler to remove the frame and place it on the table. First, you must remove any glazing points and the putty that keeps the glass in place. Wear protective clothing while doing this task. The worker will then cut the glass to fit, and then put it into the frame using the help of a special tool for glazing. It is important to use the right tools to cut glass due to its toughness and the fact that it is susceptible to cracking or shattering.