Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can become severely damaged by neglect and age. Cosmetic damage could require a replacement. However, functional problems like rattles or draughts are indicators that a sash window requires to be repaired.
First, steam the sash in order to loosen it. Remove the wood pegs with pin punch and hammer. Identify and mark all components to ensure that they can be replaced correctly later.
Wood that is damaged or broken
Unattended rotting wood can erode brickwork around windows and cause damage to plaster. The good news is that a lot of the time, this can be fixed without the need to replace the window completely.
The first thing that needs to be taken care of is to ensure that the wood in the issue is dry. It is important to examine the grain and color of the wood to determine if it is sound and not affected by damp. If the wood appears soft and brown, it's likely that rot has already occurred. 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.
Moisture accumulating in the corners of sash frames is a common issue. If this is the case, it could cause sash frames to bind and become difficult to open. To fix this issue clean the sash channel and eliminate any obstruction using a sharp wooden chisel. Once the sash channel is free of debris it can be primed to avoid any damp issues.
Also, it's worth looking into the wood that is used to create the window frame. It is best to select timber that is the same grain and colour to the wood pieces that are already in use otherwise it could be difficult to blend the joins. It is also worth using a preservative for the wood, as this can help to keep it in better condition and prevent decay.
If the wood in your sash windows is damaged and rotten it may be wise to think about replacing it completely. It's important that you choose an alternative window that is that is the same style as your windows in order to ensure that they look as good once installed. Choosing UPVC instead of timber, for example, could potentially lower the value of your home since potential buyers might believe that you have gone against period design choices.
Insecure Sash Hardware
A sash is made to glide smoothly, but wood rot or other issues can affect its performance. In addition the window's performance is not optimal. It can cause drafts and decrease in energy efficiency within the home. The longer a sash window is left unattended, the more wear and tear it will endure. This can reduce its lifespan significantly and could lead to moisture or water infiltration.
It can be a hassle trying to determine the root of a sash-window issue. In many instances, replacing the sash can be the solution. The issue could be caused by rotting timber, misalignment or imbalance of the sash, or broken glass, replacing one or both windows could help solve the issue.
Replacing a single window sash is less costly than replacing the entire frame and glass. It's also a less complicated project than installing new double-hung windows which require a higher number of trims and parts to be removed. If you're looking to replace a sash inside your home, a good place to begin is by visually taking a look at the existing window and frame. There could be gaps or misalignments that can cause the sash slide down and hinder it from remaining up.
In the majority of cases, it is possible to repair a double hung sash by taking the trim off and working from the inside of the frame. You should first remove the interior sash stop which creates a track within the bottom window. Spray the water hose on the paint surface and lightly mist it. Then pry the stop out with an utility blade. After that, using a sharp blade you can trim off any nails protruding through the the interior stop.
If yours doesn't have one, you can create an access hole by cutting a rectangular cut in the vinyl jamb liners to the height of the sash stile. If your frame doesn't have one, you can create a new hole by cutting out a rectangle from the vinyl jamb liner to the height of the stile.
Sash that isn't working properly weighs
The two weights that pull the sash upwards and down may become disconnected from one another as time passes, resulting in the sash becoming jammed or stuck in an open position. This is typically caused by broken or worn sash cords which need to be replaced.
In the course of this repair it is essential to spread dust sheets as possible to prevent any dirt or debris from settling on your furniture or carpet. This is especially important when you plan to lift and move the window while working.
Begin by carefully removing each of the staff beads from the frame on either side using a thin, broad chisel. You will see the groove that runs down the sash's side and ends with a gap for the new sashcord. Be double glazing window repairs to get rid of any old cord knots that are nailed or screwed into the hole.
You're now ready to start replacing the sash cords beginning with the top sash. To accomplish this, lower the sash gently until it is in contact with 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.
You can then remove the access panel from the frame to access the sash cord as well as the weight. Once you have the weight in hand remove the dado off the edge of the wood and then insert a nail to fix it. Make sure to use an appropriate length nail to reach the sash pocket otherwise it won't be able to fit.
Once you have placed the weight, you can replace the sash by feeding the cord into the hole. Then, push the sash over the rails, and down into the windowbox, and test the way it opens and closes. If needed you want to increase the lubrication on the rails (we recommend silicone spray for vinyl, or candle wax for wooden sashes).
If you're replacing both cords make sure they are identical in length to the old ones were and when you pull one from its pin it will slide down the sash, settling at the pulley, and then function normally. After the sash has been re-hung you can then reconnect the stop beads, and your sash is complete!
Glass damaged
A stray ball or broom handle or an errant pebble thrown by a lawnmower are often enough to break a window pane. Broken windows allow water, snow, rain and insects to get into the home. In some instances, the damage caused by shattered glass could require a complete window replacement. Installing new windows is a costly and time-consuming home improvement project. In most cases, replacing individual broken window panes is a more feasible option and is also cheaper.
Before installing new glass, it's important to ensure that you examine the sash thoroughly. This is a chance to identify any previously hidden spots where the wood is starting to decay or where old weather stripping, glue and hardware have become damaged. By taking the time to conduct this check will prevent you from having to perform more work in the future.
After you have removed the glass, it is an ideal idea to have the wood coated with a homemade wood preserver. Mix equal amounts of mineral spirit and linseed to make the wood preservative. Apply the mixture with a putty knife to the surface of sash, and let it dry completely. This will help to ensure that the glass and sash remain waterproof and long-lasting over time.
If the sash in good condition, you can repair it without having to remove the glass. The first step is to take off the window stop. This is a vertical piece of wood that is located above the stiles of a window frame. It is typically fixed by a small pry bar, which is atop a stiff-bladed knife. After the stop has been removed, it is possible to separate the rail and stiles with an easy-faced mallet or woodworking hammer to avoid damaging the shape of the sash. The next step is removing the muntins. These are the horizontal and vertical pieces of wood that separate each pane of glass inside the Sash.
It's simple to replace damaged glass after the muntins are removed. Insert the metal tabs from each new pane into the slots in the sash, and use glazing compound to hold them securely in the right place.