Sash Window Repairs
If windows in sash don't receive regular maintenance, they could become ineffective. This can cause drafts as well as energy loss and moisture damage.
Paint can crack and peel, leaving the timber exposed to the elements. Specialized joiners can repaint the wood or re-stain it, repairing any damage.
A stable work platform is provided by an easel, which can be extremely helpful when working on Sash window sashes. A good scraper is also essential.
Broken or Worn Sash Cords
Over time, sash cords may become brittle and snap or break. This can be the result of a window issue like a damaged pulley, or it could occur if the sash been closed and opened repeatedly. When this occurs the sash is likely to be difficult to move up and down without sagging or requiring significant effort.
To repair damaged cords for sash, first open the window and locate the parting bead, which is a thin piece of wood that separates the upper and lower sashes. Remove the bead gently from the frame by using a screwdriver. After removing the bead you are now able to remove the sash. Once the sash has been removed, you'll need locate the two cast iron weights that are housed in pockets on either side. Typically, there's one weight in the back (towards the outside of the window frame) and the other in the front (towards the inside side of the frame). Take both weights out of their pockets and set them aside.
After removing the counterweights from the sash channels, you can remove the access panel. Depending on the kind of window you have there could be screws or a chisel available to assist you in removing the panel. You'll be able to observe the spring coil that retracts the sash cords after the panel is removed. If this is not working correctly, you might be able to hear windows trying to move and feel a little resistance.
Re-coiling the spring can fix this issue. Once it is re-coiled you can tie it with an extension cord. It is crucial to do this correctly as a loose knot could cause the cords to break and not retracting when you require them.
After the cords have been re-tied and secured, replace the access panels and jambliner, and put the sash back in place. Double-check the new cords to make sure they are long enough and securely tied. Then, you can put the sash cords in the slots and holes in the lower sash. You can also place the counterweights into their pockets. You can now test your work. Slide the sash upwards and downwards to make sure it moves smoothly.
Drafts and Air Leaks
Sash windows can experience drafts or air leaks due the age of the window, damage or poor construction. Although these problems are typically a sign of the windows being ready to be replaced, they can also be fixed or reworked with some effort.
One of the most common draft and air leak issues is caused by weather stripping that is worn or no weather stripping at all. Foam tape or a similar product is recommended to close the gaps between the sash frame. This will help to seal the gap and keep out hot or cold air. If the weather stripping has been damaged, folded over or is missing, this can cause drafts and energy inefficiency.
If the window's wood is rotting, you will likely have to replace them. It's not always the case. Your Tasker may be capable of preserving the wood by making some careful repairs. The most effective way to determine whether your sash windows' timber is rotting, is to drive a screwdriver through the wood and see whether it goes all the way.
Another easy repair is replacing the pockets and parting bead. It's as easy as scoring the paint with an utility knife between the frame and sash and then prying off the pocket cover or the parting bead using a scraper. It's easy to replace the beading because it's available in similar designs.
After these repairs, you can expect your sash window's appearance and function great again. Although it's not always possible to restore old sash windows that are considered to be beyond repair, the majority of them can be salvaged and restored to provide centuries more of loyal service. Booking a Tasker is a good idea for window repairs that are more complex than standard scratch or corrosion treatments. These jobs can take longer to complete. However, most Taskers can finish these kinds of tasks completed in a couple of hours, or even less.
Rotting Wood
As wood rots, it loses the ability to hold nails or other fasteners. This loss of structural strength can eventually result in windows being damaged or even collapse. Repairing wood windows that are rotting can be a good fix however replacing them usually a better solution. To prevent rotting, inspect your windows on a regular basis for signs of moisture buildup and take steps to correct any issues that you spot.
In the course of routine maintenance, you should clean your windows to get rid of the dirt and grime that may block the movement of the sashes. In addition, you should use a dehumidifier to control humidity levels, as excessive moisture can cause wood expand and become stuck. To ensure that windows operate smoothly, you should also apply a light coating of wax to the tracks and sashes of windows to provide lubrication.
If a sash becomes stuck the first step is to check the counterweights for any imbalance. If the counterweights appear be in good working order, and there are no indications of imbalance, it's possible that the problem is caused by an draft or air leak. If this is the situation, you can close the draft with foam tape or rope caulk.
You can often save windows with little rot by using a wood filler to repair the damaged area. To ensure a seamless appearance pick a wood filler that matches your wood's color and type. After the filler has dried, sand until it is smooth prior to painting. If you notice a section of sash that's totally rotten, replacing it with new wooden will be your best option.
Dismantling old weighted-sash wood windows isn't easy however, it's crucial to keep as much of the original frame as is possible to cut down on labor costs and avoid unnecessary damage. Before you begin, take a photo of the window as it's assembled to serve as a reference point for the disassembly process. It's also a good idea to make an easel from framing lumber to allow you to stand up straight and get the best angles for glazing and scraping. double glazed timber sash windows is made easier with a quality scraper, such as the Bahco, which allows you to adjust the blades to the perfect angle for any curved parts of the sash.
Damaged Frame
As windows get older, the frames can become damaged or rotted. The good thing is that it's possible to repair the old timber frames instead of replacing them. However this is a large undertaking that requires a large amount of materials.
This is a job that can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day. A professional can eliminate rotted parts, apply wood fillers, and use natural preservatives to extend the lifespan of your windows. This will save you money on your energy bills and stop drafts from entering your home.
A tasker can also replace sills and parts of the sash that are damaged or rotting. They usually utilize the original window as a model, so you don't have to purchase a new set.
To repair a damaged sash first steam the sash in order to remove any paint or varnish. Scrape the sash to the wood grain before priming it and reinstalling the glazing putty and installing glass. Then, sand the sash and frame smooth and apply a couple coats of primer and paint.
In the past, sashes were joined with wooden pegs tapered and that were driven through a mortise and tenon. This kind of joint can be more difficult to disassemble and you'll need a handsaw, a knife or a sharp object to cut the glue line. Later sashes used glue which is simpler to separate.
After the sash has been repaired and reinstalled, it's time to put the track of vinyl inside the frame. Remove the pawls of each locking terminal using a screwdriver, and then lower the sash so that it is seated in the vinyl jamb liners.
It is important to apply glazing putty prior replacing your sash. You can buy this mix of chalk and linseed from any hardware store. Keep some extra pieces of chalk on hand to make the putty more useful and to clean. After mixing the putty, knead it until it's smooth. You can add more chalk as needed to ensure an even consistency.