Undeniable Proof That You Need Window Sash Repairs
Window Sash Repairs
Most homeowners don't give much thought to window sashes as long as they are capable of opening and closing and keep the air inside and the air out. But over time, they can begin to wear out, leading to drafts, air leaks or even sashes that stick.
With a sash propped up on an easel made from wood The artist works the glazing points into a gap. He also scrapes off paint and then applies a wood preservative on the frame.
Sash Weights
If windows aren't opening or closing smoothly or are sticking, a faulty counter-balancing system could be the cause. This could be due to the sash being damaged or missing chain or a loose or misaligned the sashweight, or even a broken or cracked pulley.
The sashweights are tiny boxes made of cast-iron, which balance the counter-weight system as well as support the sash. They are located on the bottom rails of every window frame. They are covered with a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal their position. These panels can also be removed to gain access to the pockets of sash weights for cleaning, repairs or replacement.
There could be a problem with the sashweights if been using your sash windows for a while. They could lean or catch. This could be due to the weights being too heavy (they are supposed to be a little heavier than the top sash) or due to them being installed incorrectly (some people disabled their weight systems by cutting them and taking the weights out to save money or turning them into scrap metal).
To resolve this issue, remove the stops (the trim that runs along the inside of the window where it joins with the frame to keep it in place). Place them aside. This will require you to be careful so as to not scratch the profile of your meeting rails. You can then use a hammer or mallet to break the stiles from the rails and inspect them for damage or any repairs that require to be made.
After inspecting the rails and stiles of the sash, put some dust sheets on the floor and start working. Start by taking the wood pegs out of the mortise and the tenon joints using a pin punch and a screwdriver or hammer. After the pegs have been removed you can begin disassembling the sash by taking out the sash stop moldings and removing the sash cord knots that are in place, and finally, taking the sash off itself.
Next you will want to weigh the sash in order to figure out how much weight is needed to ensure the proper functioning. You can find vintage replacement sash weights online or in some home improvement stores, but be sure to purchase the right size so as not to overload or underweight the sash.
Sash Cords
Sash cords that are worn or damaged can cause problems with the sash window. The weights put constant pressure on the sash's cords and this could cause them to break over time. The sashes won't be able to open or close as easily when the cords break. The problem can be caused by a number of things, including excessive force, aging, lack of maintenance and moisture buildup. It's important that you replace the old cords during window sash repair with new ones made of an material that is durable and resistant to moisture.
Begin by removing the internal stops which are the thin strips of wood that keep the sashes in place using a utility knife and a the chisel. Carefully pry the stops off of the sashes, keeping an eye on any that are cracked or broken. After the stops have been removed, you will be able to access the sash weights through an access panel cut into frame's bottom or by opening the jamb and taking off the cover for the weight pocket.
Accessing the sash cords takes some extra effort however it's not too difficult with the right tools and perseverance. First, take off the old cords by cutting them near their knots and pulling them free. Then, take the sash from the frame and put it aside. Remove the staff bead, which is the nail that holds the sash in position. Install a nail of about a foot into the hole. This will temporarily keep the sash from falling while you string the counterweights.
After reinstalling the upper sash, reattach the sash cords and make sure the sashes are properly balanced and move smoothly. Install the lower sash and repeat the procedure. Check that the sashes are properly set and are moving in a smooth manner.
After you've installed the counterweights, reattach the sash cords by putting a sash cord through the pulleys and threading the other end of the cord through a knot hole in the sash to secure it in place. Repeat this process on both sides of the sash, making sure that the sashes function normally again.
Drafts and Air Leaks
Over time, the materials that secure sash windows to your frame begin to degrade creating drafts and loss of energy. A thorough inspection will reveal the problem areas and assist you in determining the best options for repairs to your window sash. Your comfort preferences and skill level influence whether you can self-manage window repair or require expert assistance. The historical status of your property and structural integrity issues also affect the scope of work that is required.
If cold air is leaking in through a drafty door or window, your furnace will be forced to work harder to heat your home. This inefficiency eats into your heating bills and compromises the efficiency of your home's HVAC system. Drafts can also reduce the quality of air inside and affect indoor comfort by adding allergens, pollutant and humidity from outside.
A common sign of a drafty window is the feeling of cold air entering your room despite all doors and windows being shut. sash window repairs to look out for include an increase in the temperature of your home close to the window and condensation on the frame or sill.
Fixing drafty windows can be an easy task, and will reduce your energy bills and increase your comfort in the home. The first step is to examine the exterior of the window. Look for bare wood and areas where the old caulking has cracked, opening the gaps to cold air.
Examine the interface of the sash with the frame. This includes the parting bead and the staff bead. Examine the condition of weather stripping in these areas (felt strips or tape) to determine if they're in good condition and functional. If not, it needs to be replaced.
Also, take note of the condition of glazing putty, a hard putty that holds panes of glass in place. Examine for cracks or crumbling that exposes the sash to moisture which could cause mold issues and even damage the windows' glass.
Apply a fresh layer of glazing putty to the inside of the window to fix the problem. To fix the glazing points, make use of a flat-bladed screwdriver push them into position. Wrap a piece of fabric and foam around each point. This will act as insulation against cold air.
Aesthetics
Window repair to sash can give older windows a new appearance at a cost less than a complete replacement. A complete window replacement can be a costly and time-consuming undertaking, particularly for older homes. Sometimes, repairing window sashes can restore the original appeal of a house and add value to it as well.
It is important to keep an eye on the condition and wear of window sashes in order to avoid major issues. It is recommended to speak with a professional if you are not sure if your windows require repair. The cost of a sash repair is typically cheaper than the cost to replace the entire window, and can reduce your energy bills as well.
The first step is to lower the upper sash down to the bottom - this is usually easy and will give you an excellent view of the "parting beads" (these are the grooved bits in the rails that join either side that keep the 2 sliding sashes separate). Take them off using the blade of a small pry bar or a putty blade - they are usually nailed into place and stuck with paint, so you have be cautious not to harm them or the sash.
After you've removed your parting beads, the next job is to remove the covers for your pockets. They are tiny pieces of wood which are fixed to the frame at the bottom. They permit access to the sashweights. Once they've been removed, the sash may be moved up and down to check that it is moving smoothly.
If it doesn't, it may be problems with the counterweights or sash cords. After you've checked all these, you can repair them as needed.
Wooden windows look beautiful and natural. They blend in well with both traditional or contemporary interiors. They can also be made to be highly customizable with a variety of stain and paint options. However, wooden windows require regular maintenance to avoid damage and rot.
