How to Repair a Sash Window
Experts agree that the process of restoring old windows made of sash is more environmentally friendly and cost-effective than replacing them. Why not try it for yourself?
You can make your home more comfortable by addressing issues like sticking sashes and drafts. Before you begin, take a look at these things.
Damaged Sash Cords
If the cords that pull the sash up and down wear out, it is difficult to open and close the window. In some instances, the cords could break. Sash cords have to be replaced in order to solve this issue. This is an easy fix for homeowners of all kinds. It can be accomplished within a matter of minutes if you are working on just one lower sash.
Begin by preparing your workspace and then cover the floor with a tarp to collect any debris or loose nails that fall when you take down the window. Wear a face mask if you're working on an older home to protect yourself from lead paint dust.
First, remove the stop beads. These are thin pieces that are placed around the inside of the window frame to prevent the sash from sliding away. Remove the window sash and set it on a workbench or table. You'll now be able to access the cast-iron weights which are behind the window frame. Once you've removed the weights and the old sash cords can start replacing them with new ones.
The length of your old cord to determine how long you'll need to cut your new cord. Then tie a knot on the end of your new cord to ensure it can't slip over the top of the old pulley. Then, you can plug your new cord through the access hole you cut in the panel cover. Then, reinstall the window sash and test its operation.
Install the panel cover, staff bead, and ensure that all nails are securely pushed into the window box. Make sure they are placed below the surface of the wood in order to prevent damaging the paint finish or limiting the sash's movement. If the sash still doesn't move smoothly, seal the gap between the staff bead and the window box using decorators caulk to minimize draughts.
When the caulk has dried and the trim is reinstalled, it's time to replace the sash and its trim. If you are not comfortable with tools, you can engage a professional repair service to repair the sash cables for you. However, this is an expensive alternative. Many homeowners prefer a more DIY solution, which is replacing the broken cords themselves.
Broken Sash Weights
The sash cords might be damaged if the window isn't closing or opening properly. Replace the old sash cords, and you should be able to get your windows back into good working order.
Take off the screws that hold the beads in place with the help of a screwdriver. Then, lift the sash from the window frame. Unlock the access panels on the side jambs, in the event that they are there, to get access to the sash pulleys and sash weights. Carefully remove the sash from the frame and lay it on dust sheets, if you can to avoid damaging walls and paintwork in the process.
Look over the pulleys and sash weights and decide if they are the correct ones. If the sash is heavy, you may have to add more weights to ensure it is balanced. You can buy lead sashweights on the internet or from a local hardware store if you don't already have them.
Remove any slack from the cords after you have removed the sashweights. Then feed the new sash cord through the pulley, and out the other end of the channel to the sash. Then pull the cord upwards until it reaches the weight and tie a knot.
Repeat the process with the other sash cord. Insert your sash back into the frame of the window, ensuring it is level. If necessary replace the parting bead or staff bead. Fill in the gaps around these with decorators caulk.
The last step is to install the stopper for the interior of the sash. If you're not sure how to do this ask an expert for assistance. After reinstalling them, test the windows to see if they are functional. You can then finish putting back the window by replacing the trim on the window, access panel covers, and painting any areas damaged or covered during the repairs. Make sure that the window is properly installed before installing it. Place the window on a scale and make sure that both sashweights are the same dimensions. If they're not, you can use'make-up' weights made of lead to balance the sash.
Sash Locks that aren't working
A damaged lock on the sash window is one of the most common reasons that a sash won't open or close properly. In some cases this can be a simple fix, however, in other instances it could require a total replacement of the lock. A damaged lock can also be a security issue, as it could provide an easy way for burglars to gain entry into your home.
Window locks are made to to stand up to the weight of the sash however, they are still susceptible to wear down over time. This is because the hardware is exposed to so much stress, as well as the natural motion of the foundations of your home. If you're dealing with a faulty window lock, it's crucial to identify any other issues that can cause it to fail.
A misaligned lock is usually the reason for an sash lock that doesn't lock properly. A slight misalignment can stop the keeper from interacting with the latch and prevent the door from closing. This can be corrected by pushing the bottom sash down into the room and lifting the top sash upwards.
Rust buildup in the mechanism is another frequent reason for a sashlock that doesn't work. A lot of older window frames are made of aluminum or wood, and this can corrode over time. This corrosion can block the mechanisms and stop them from functioning properly.
In some cases it may be necessary to replace the entire sash-lock fastener. This can be done quickly. It's a simple procedure that requires just a few tools as well as patience. The first step is to remove the old fastener, and clean off any rust or debris off the surface. You can then employ a drill to create new holes for the screw and bolt. Then, screw the new fastener in place and make sure it is secure.
It's a straightforward task that most homeowners can accomplish. This will ensure the safety and security of your window. This is a great method of reducing air infiltration and making your home more energy efficient.
Broken Glass Panes
Glass panes are often broken by errant lawnmowers, baseballs, blades and other debris. When it happens, you must decide whether to repair the glass pane or replace the entire window sash. Depending on the extent of damage to the glass is, you might also have to remove the glazing compound as well as the metal points. While repairing a broken pane, ensure you wear gloves and a mask, as well as protective eyewear. Also, cover your floor with a drop cloth to stop small glass particles from getting into your work area and creating a hazard for children or pets.
Before you can replace the window pane you need to remove the old pane and scrape off any old caulking, or putty, from the frame rabbets. These are the grooves in the frame where the glass is located. If there's lots of putty, it may be necessary to employ a scraper that is a pull type or an old chisel, and tap lightly to avoid cracking the window. A heat gun can soften the old putty so it's easier to take off. After you've removed your old pane and its glazing then sand the rabbets in order to smooth them. Then, apply a new caulking or glaziers' compound with the same dimensions as the opening originally.
As the putty is drying make door repairman sure the glass is prepared for installation by cleaning it and wiping it with a damp sponge. If the glass is insulated, remove the insulation by cutting it off at the top and bottom of the pane using the help of a utility knife. The metal points that keep the glass in place can be removed by hitting them or pulling them with the help of a putty knife.
To replace the glass pane that was glazed, roll a length of compound used by glaziers into a rope of about 3/4 inch thick. Press it into the rabbet around the edges of the glass and pressing it firmly against the sash of wood. After you're done making sure there are no gaps or holes between the frame and the putty then fill them in with more compound. Give the putty time to dry completely before painting the window. Wear protective gloves and cover the work area with a dropcloth to protect yourself from glass shattering.