Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can become seriously damaged over time. While cosmetic damage would likely need to be repaired but functional issues with a window like rattles and draughts could indicate that the repair of sash windows is in order.
Steam the sash first to loosen it. Then remove the wood pegs with the help of a pin punch and hammer. Make sure to mark and identify all parts to ensure that they can later be replaced properly.
Broken or Rotten Wood
Unattended rotting wood can erode brickwork around the window and also damage plaster. It's important to know this problem can often be repaired without having to replace the window.
First, ensure the wood is dry. It is important to examine the grain and colour of the timber to determine if it's solid and unaffected by damp. If the wood appears to be soft and brown it is likely that rot has already occurred. Check if the sash's position is held by a number spliced sections of timber and if they aren't damp.
Another issue that is common is the accumulation of moisture in the corners of the sash frames. This could cause the sash to become stuck and difficult to open. To resolve this issue, clean the sash channel and remove any obstructions using the sharp edge of a chisel. Once the sash channels have been cleaned free of debris and dirt, they can be primed to prevent future problems with damp.
It's also important to examine the wood used in constructing the window frame. It is recommended to choose wood that is similar in grain pattern and colour to the wood pieces that are already in use otherwise it will be difficult to mix the joins. You may also want to consider applying a wood preservative which will aid in keeping the wood in good condition and prevent the wood from rotting.
If the timber of your sash window is severely damaged and rotten, it could be beneficial to replace it entirely. If you decide to replace it you should select the replacement that has the same design as the windows you have to ensure that it's as beautiful when it's put in your home. The choice of UPVC instead of timber, for example, could potentially decrease the value of your home as prospective buyers may think that you've gone against the traditional design style.
Sash Hardware is faulty Sash Hardware
A sash window is designed to move effortlessly, however often, wood rot and other issues can hinder its functionality. In addition, a poorly functioning window 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. garage door repairs near me can reduce its lifespan significantly, and it could also lead to moisture or water infiltration.
It can be a hassle to try and determine the cause of a sash-window issue. In many instances replacing the sash could be the solution. Replace one or both windows if the issue is caused by rotting wood, misalignment or an imbalance.
Replacing a single sash of a window is less expensive than replacing the entire frame and glass. It's also a less complicated task than installing new double-hung windows which require a greater amount of trims and parts to be removed. If you want to replace a sash inside your home, a good place to start is by visually inspecting the existing window and frame. You might notice gaps or issues that could cause the sash to tilt, and stop it from remaining up.
In most cases, it's possible to repair a double-hung sash if you remove the trim and work from the inside. It is best to first take off the stopper in the interior of the sash which creates a track inside the window at the bottom. To do this spray a hose with water and lightly mist the paint inside the stop, then pull it off using a knife. After that, using a sharp blade to cut off any nails that are protruding through the back of the stop's interior.
After removing the frame and sash and frame, you can search for an access panel for weights, which is a knockout inside the frame that's big enough to pass a sash weight through. If yours does not have one, you can make an additional hole by cutting out a rectangle of the vinyl jamb liner to the height of the stile.
A faulty Sash Weighs
The two weights that pull the sash upwards and down may be separated from one another in time, resulting in the sash becoming jammed, or stuck in an open position. This is usually caused by broken or worn sash cords which need to be replaced.
When you are working on this repair it is essential to spread dust sheets as possible to prevent any dirt or debris from reaching your furniture or carpet. This is especially crucial if you intend to lift and move the window while working, to avoid damaging any area of your home.
Once the sash is untied begin by carefully taking off the staff bead on each side of the window frame using a small, wide chisel. There will be the groove that runs down each side of the sash and finishes with a hole for the new sashcord. Remove any knots on the old cord nailed or glued into the hole.
Now you're ready to start replacing the sash cords, starting with the top sash. To do this you need to lower the sash slowly until it is in contact with the bottom sill. It can be supported by the wood either side of the frame. Otherwise, it could fall to the floor, breaking the glass.
Then, take off the access panel to the frame and take the sash cable and sashweight. Once you have the weight in your hand, remove the dado from the edge of the wood and then insert a nail to fix it. Make sure you use a nail that's long enough to reach the pocket of the sash otherwise it won't be able to fit.
Once you have the weight set You can then replace the sash cord by feeding it into the hole. Then, push the sash onto the rails, and down into the windowbox, and then test whether it opens or closes. If necessary you need to add more lubrication to the rails (we recommend silicone spray for vinyl, or candle wax for wooden sashes).
If you're replacing both cords, ensure they're exactly the same length as the original ones were, so when you release one from its pin it will fall easily through the sash, settling at the pulley, and then function normally. After the sash has been re-hung you can reattach the stop bead and your sash will be completed!
Damaged Glass
A baseball, a broom, or a stone that is thrown by a lawnmower could cause enough damage to the glass. Broken glass can allow water, snow, rain and even insects to enter your home. In some cases, the resulting damage may call for total window replacement. However, installing new windows can be a huge expensive home improvement project. In most cases, replacing damaged window panes is a much more manageable and less costly option.
Before installing new glass, you need to make sure you carefully examine the sash. This is a chance to discover any previously unnoticed spots where the wood is beginning to decay or where the old weather stripping, glue and hardware have degraded. Making the effort to conduct this inspection will prevent you from having to do even more work later on.
After the glass has been removed it's an ideal idea to give the wood a thorough coat of homemade wood preservative. To make it mix equal parts of mineral spirits and linseed oil. After mixing apply the mix on the surface of the sash with a putty knife and let it dry completely. This will ensure that your brand new glass and sash is waterproof and durable for an extended period of time.
If the sash is in good working order it is possible to fix it without having to remove the glass. The first step is removing the window stop. This is a vertical wood piece that is situated over the stiles of the window frame. It is typically secured by a small pry bar that is placed over a stiff-bladed knife. After removing the stop you can separate the rails and stiles using an hammer for woodworking or a soft-faced hammer. This will avoid damaging the profile. The next step is to take out the muntins. These are the horizontal and vertical pieces of wood that divide each glass pane inside the sash.
After the muntins have been removed, it's simple to replace the glass that has been broken. Use glazing compound to hold the tabs made of metal into their slots on the sash.