Sash Windows Repair
Pam is determined to save the original window. She uses a heatgun set to medium and a nozzle guard that softens the old, hardened glazing compound (putty) and then a putty knife to scrape it off.
She then ties the sash cords on the bottom to prevent them from slipping into the pockets of weight and removes the hardware. She then puts the bag in a container with the label.
Repairing the Sash
Even when they are maintained properly and repaired, older wood windows might not be able to open or close as easily. This issue could be due to the wrong alignment of hardware, which is an simple to repair or could be due to the wood's swelling and contraction due to the fluctuation in humidity levels. The replacement of sash windows made of wood can make windows run more smoothly and efficiently.
To remove the lower sash, first find the wooden peg(s) that connect the stile and rail together. To ensure that the sash is not damaged using a mallet with a soft face or hammer to gently remove the rail from the stile. Then, take off the muntins (the vertical and horizontal pieces that are what separate the glass panes). After you have removed the muntins, raise the sash upwards and place it on the table or work bench. Then, take the sash cords from their pulleys, and cut them down below where they are attached to the staff bead.
After the window is cleaned then reassemble it. The author uses a small pry bar to apply glazing compound over a putty knife that has a stiff blade. Then, she secures each reassembled window sash by using glazier's tips (one on each side). Finally, she adds a sash stop to keep it from being completely pulled down.
If you're using the sash cords it's recommended to tie the back end of each to a pin or nail protruding from the top of the staff bead. this will hold the weight in place until you can attach the other end to the sash. After the cord is secured to the staff bead, you can temporarily pin or nail the weight to the staff bead and leave the head protruding to keep the weight from slipping out of its place in the process.
After the sash is reassembled, it should be put in its frame. Then, the track made of vinyl can be put back in place and then the lock terminals can be replaced by releasing each pawl from its locking terminal, then turning them counterclockwise in order to reset their tension.
Restoring the Frame
The elements can have a big impact on the exterior and interior of your sash windows, and it's often the scenario that the frame will be more damaged than the sash. This is due to the fact that the frame is exposed to the weather particularly in older homes where the sills are old and don't slope like modern ones. Water residue can collect on the sill, which can eventually cause the wood to decay. If the rot isn't treated, it may extend to other areas of the frame and weaken the structural strength.
A specialist window restoration firm can fix your sash windows and improve their energy efficiency. They can also install brush pile strips that minimize drafts and stop the window from being rattled.
Restoring your sash windows can be more affordable than replacing them and bring back a sense of the past to your home. A reputable business will be able to restore your sash windows and ensure they are in best condition for many years to come.
It is crucial to verify that the hardware functions properly and that there aren't any leaks prior to trying to repair a sash. If the sash can't be shut and opened it could need to be replaced.
After removing the sash, the old glazing putty needs to be scraped off and frames cleaned to naked wood if required. After repair of the damaged areas using a top-quality wood filler like Expoxy HighBuild they can be sanded down to remove any bumps and unevenness. After sanding, the repaired area, it can then be primed and finally painted to guard against moisture and the elements.
Another common issue with old sash windows is that the muntins (vertical and horizontal pieces of wood that divide the glass panes) could break off or fall out completely. This is usually caused by decayed or soft wood and can be prevented through regular inspections and maintenance. Regularly applying wood preservatives such as varnish or linseed can protect the timbers and help you identify potential issues before they become serious.
Restoring the Glass
When a window is old it begins to show signs of wear and tear. The paint may start to chip, and the wood might begin to rot or the glass may break. This is when it's time to fix your windows with sash.
The sash is a part of the window that contains the glazing bars as well as actual glass. The sash is moved between the sides to open and close the window. This movement is supported through the system of weights and cords.
Wooden sash windows need regular maintenance to ensure they are working properly. Untreated, the sash could begin to develop mildew, mold or rot. The exposure to elements causes the sash of wood to swell and shrink in response to changes in humidity. This can cause the window frame to get stuck or jammed.
Cleaning the glass and glazing bars and getting rid of any dirt or dust that has accumulated on them is the initial step in restoring the sash. This is a good opportunity to replace any worn weather strip. If you don't have a weather strip, you could double glazing window repairs add one to the bottom of your sash. You can also apply a silicone spray or Teflon to lubricate the pulley axles.
It is a good idea to examine the wood for damage after the sash was cleaned and reflared. A test with a screwdriver can be performed to see whether the wood is brittle or decayed, and in that the case it should be replaced. The new timber is then put into the rotted areas and primed and painted.
Draught-proofing the window is another method to improve its acoustic properties. This is accomplished by injecting heavy gases into the gaps between the glass panes to reduce the amount of air that passes through. This can dramatically improve the thermal efficiency of the window as well as reduce noise from outside. Draught-proofing also helps to reduce heating and cooling costs. This is particularly important in Minnesota, where energy bills can be very high. Having your sash windows repaired and draught-proofed can make a big difference to the comfort of your home.
Restoring the Muntins
Even damaged muntins can be repaired using the correct techniques. First, tape strips of painter’s tape to the glass. Apply a slow-setting epoxy layer to the damaged muntin. Once the epoxy is dry using a scraper, create an ideal profile. Then, wipe the window clean with a rag that has been dampened with white vinegar. Sand it smooth prior to applying a second coat of epoxy.
After repairing the frame and sash, as well as the glazing bars, you are ready to paint the window. At this stage, you can choose to purchase new restoration glass from a dealer or salvage old window panes from salvage yards. When searching for glass at a salvage yard you should look for glass that is either the right size or 4" larger than your current panes. This will make it easier to cut the glass.
The upper and lower frames slide into each other and are joined by two sets of rails (the horizontal strips that hold the sash) and stiles (the vertical pieces that connect them). Sash windows also feature a sophisticated arrangement of timber parts: profiled sash horns and sash guts that surround glazing mouldings, scotia mouldings, precision-made staff and parting beads. All these parts must work seamlessly together with precise millimetre-sized gaps, and an array of weights and pulleys hidden within the frame.
When windows are reglazed to fit insulated glass units, the original stiles and rails, as well as frames are often removed to accommodate the more dense glazing. This can not only decrease the transparency of the individual lights, it could also compromise the structural strength of the sash and lead to damage over time.
To avoid this, many homeowners decide to take off the sash they have and reframe the window instead. This is a substantial investment, but it's often cheaper than replacing the entire window. It can also help preserve your home’s historic features. It will also not affect the energy efficiency of your house. Sash window restoration can be an excellent option, whether you are seeking a quick fix or an investment that will last for a long time.