How to Repair a Sash Window
Experts believe that restoring your old windows with sash is more affordable and green than replacing them. So why not give it a go yourself?
You can improve the comfort of your home by addressing issues like sticking sashes and drafts. Here are some points to consider prior to starting.
Damaged Sash Cords
When the cords that pull the sash up and down wear out, it becomes difficult to open and close the window. In some instances, the cords could break. To fix this, sash cables must be replaced. This is an easy fix for any homeowner. It can be accomplished in less than an hour when you work on only one lower sash.
Begin by preparing your work area and then cover the floor with a tarp to catch any debris or loose nails that fall as you dismantle the window. Wear a mask if working on an older home to shield yourself from dust particles of lead paint.
Start by taking off the stop beads, which are thin pieces of wood that line the inner window frame and stop the sash from sliding out of the window frame. Remove the window sash from its box and set it on a workbench or table. Now you can access the pockets for weights. They are cast-iron weights that are located behind the window frame. Once you've removed the weights and old sash cords, you can start replacing them with new ones.
Take a measurement of the length of your old cord to determine the length you'll need to cut your new cord. Then tie a knot at the end of your new cord to ensure it doesn't fall over the top of the old pulley. Now, you can connect your new cord through the hole that you cut in the panel cover. After that, you can reinstall the window sash and check its operation.
Install the panel cover, staff bead, and make sure that all nails are securely driven into the window box. Make sure they're set lower than the surface of the wood to prevent damaging the paint finish or limiting the sash's movement. If the sash does not move smoothly, apply decorators caulk between the staff beads and the window boxes to limit draughts.
Once the caulk is dry it's time to install both the trim and sash. If you're uncomfortable working with tools, it's possible to employ a professional repair firm to replace the sash's cords. This is a costly solution. The majority of homeowners opt for the more DIY solution, which entails replacing the damaged cords themselves.
Broken Sash Weights
If your windows in sash aren't opening and closing correctly, it could be due to the sash cords are broken. It is possible to get your windows working again by replacing the old sash cables.
Start by removing the screws that hold the stop beads with the help of a screwdriver. Then remove the sash from the window frame. If there are access panels on the jambs, open them to gain access to the sash pulleys and the weights. Carefully remove the sash from the frame and then lay down dust sheets, if possible, to avoid damage to walls and paintwork in the process.
Check out the pulleys and weights on the sash and determine if they're the correct ones. If the sash is quite heavy, you may have to add more weights in order to make it more balanced. If you don't own any lead sash weights, you can purchase them on the internet or at your local hardware store.
Take any loose slack off the cords once you have removed the sashweights. Then, feed the new cord through the pulley, and out the other end of the channel to the sash. Then pull the cord until it reaches the weight. Tie a knot.
Repeat the process for the other cord. Re-insert the sash into frame of the window, making sure it is level. If necessary replace the parting beads or staff bead. Fill in the gaps around these with decorators' caulk.
The final step is to re-insert the interior sash stops. If you're not sure how to do this ask an expert for assistance. After you have reinstalled upvc window repair them, check the windows to make sure they are in working in good working order. You can then put back the window in place by replacing the window trim, access panel covers, and painting any areas damaged or covered during the repairs. Make sure the window is securely put up before you finish the installation. You can check this by placing it on the scale to verify that the two sash weights are equal in size. If they're not, use'make-up' weights made of lead to balance the sash.
Sashlocks that aren't working
A damaged lock on a sash window is one of the most common reasons that a sash won't open or close properly. In some cases it's simple to fix. However in other instances, the lock might need to be replaced. A broken lock can be a security issue, as it allows thieves to gain access to your house.
Window locks are made to to support the weight of the sash, but they can still get worn out over time. This is mostly due to the hardware being exposed to so much stress, as well as the natural movement of the foundation of the house. If you're dealing with a faulty window lock, you need to look for other issues that can cause it to fail.
When your sash lock isn't locking properly it can often be due to an interlock that isn't aligned correctly. A slight misalignment can hinder the keeper from connecting with the latch and the door isn't closing. This is usually corrected by lifting the sash at the bottom and pushing it into the room to ensure that the interlocks are aligned properly.
Rust buildup in the mechanism is another frequent reason why a sashlock isn't working. Many older window frames are made from aluminum or wood and this can corrode over time. The corrosion can then bind the mechanisms together and prevent them from closing or opening correctly.
In certain situations it is necessary to replace the entire sash lock fastener, which can be done easily. It's a simple process that requires just the use of a few tools and patience. First, you'll need to remove the fastener, then remove any rust or debris. Then you can make use of a drill to create new holes for the bolt and screw. Then, you'll need screw the new fastener into the right place and ensure that it's secure.
It's a straightforward task that most homeowners can do. This will ensure the security and safety of your window. This is a fantastic way to reduce air infiltration while making your home more energy efficient.
Broken Glass Panes
Glass panes are often broken by errant baseballs, lawnmower blades and other debris. It is up to you to decide if want to replace the window sash or repair the glass pane. Based on the severity of the damage, you may require the removal of the metal glazing points and the glazing compound around the glass. Wear gloves, a mask, and wear protective eyewear when fixing damaged glass. Cover your floor with a dropcloth to stop glass particles from contaminating your floor and posing a threat to children or pets.
Before you can replace the window pane you need remove the old pane and scrape any old caulking, or putty, from the frame rabbets. These are the grooves inside the frame where the glass is located. If there's a lot of putty, it might be necessary to use a pull-type paint scraper or an old chisel to tap lightly to prevent cracking the window. The use of heat guns is to soften old putty, making it easier to remove. After you've removed the old pane as well as its glazing, sand the rabbets to smooth them, and then apply new caulking or glaziers' compound using the same dimensions as the original opening.
While the putty dries, prepare the new glass for installation by cleaning it and wiping it with a dampened sponge. Remove the insulation from the glass by cutting it at the top and bottom with a utility blade. You'll then have to take out the glazing points of the metal that secure it by hammering them or pulling them out with a putty knife.
To replace the glazed pane roll a length of compound for glaziers into a rope about 3/4 inch thick. Press it into the rabbet around the edges of the glass, firmly against the wood sash. When you're done and you're done, if there's gaps or holes between the frame and the putty, fill them with more compound. Give the putty time to dry completely before painting the window. Wear gloves that are protected and cover the work area with a dropcloth to protect yourself from glass shattering.