Window Sash Repairs

Most homeowners don't give much thought to window sashes as long as they're capable of being opened and closed and keep the air inside and the air outside out. However, over time, they can begin to wear out, leading to air leaks, drafts, or even sashes sticking.

The author makes use of an sash supported on an easel to work glazing points into the gap. He also scrapes paint off the frame and then applies wood preserver.

Sash Weights

When your windows aren't opening and closing in a smooth manner or are sticking due to a problem with the counter-balancing system, it's possible that a could be at fault. It could be caused by an ailing or damaged double glazed sash windows for listed buildings chain or a sashweight that is not aligned properly or not attached to a weight, or a damaged or cracked pulley.

The sash weights are small boxes made of cast iron, that help support the sash and also balance the window's counter-weight system. The sash window restoration weights are located on the bottom rails of every window frame. They are covered by a wooden panel which can be removed to reveal their location. The panels can be removed for access to the sash weight pockets for cleaning, repairs or replacement.

There may be problems with the sashweights if you've had your sash windows a while. They might lean or catch. The weights could be too heavy (they should be a bit heavier than the top sash), or installed improperly.

To address this issue, first pry off the stops (the trim along the inside edges of the window that joins the frame and holds it in the frame) and then set them aside. This will require you to be gentle so as to not scratch the shape of your meeting rails. Then you can use a hammer or mallet to break up the rail and stiles and inspect the rails for damage or any repairs that require to be made.

After inspecting the rails and stiles of the sash, place some dust sheets on the floor and start working. Start by removing wood pegs with a pin-punch and hammer or screwdriver from the mortise-and tenon joints. After removing the pegs you can begin disassembling the sash. Take off the stop moldings for sash and any sash cords still attached.

Next, you will need to weigh the sash to determine how much weight it needs for proper functioning. You can find old replacement sash weights online or at a few home improvement stores, but you should ensure that you purchase the right size to ensure not to over or under weight the sash.

Sash Cords

Often sash window problems stem from damaged or worn sash cords. The weights exert constant pressure on the sash cords, and this can cause them break over time. If cords break, sashes will no longer open and close easily. The issue could be caused due to excessive force, aging or lack of maintenance or moisture buildup. During window sash repairs it is crucial to replace the old cords with new ones made of materials that last and resist moisture.

Start by removing the interior stop strips, thin wood strips that hold the sashes into their place Utilizing a utility blade and a chisel. Carefully pry the stops off of the sashes while keeping an eye on cracks or broken. After removing the stops, you can access the weights on the sash by opening the jamb or removing the weight pocket.

It may take a bit more work to reach the sash cords but with the right tools and a little bit of patience it is not difficult. Take the old cords out first by cutting them in their knots and then pulling them out. Remove the sash and place it aside. When the sash window repair is removed then pull it back down on the staff bead (the nail that keeps the sash from falling) and insert one nail that is about a foot long into the hole for the staff bead. This will hold the sash in place while you finish stringing counterweights.

After reinstalling the upper sash then reattach the sash cords and ensure that the sashes are properly balanced and move smoothly. Then, you can reinstall the lower sash and repeat the process, checking that the sashes are correctly sitting and moving smoothly.

Reattach the sash cables after you have put in the counterweights. Thread the cord through the pulleys and then through the knot hole on the sash. Repeat this procedure for each side of the sash until cords have been replaced and the sashes are operating normally again.

Air and Drafts Leaks

Over time, materials that connect your sash window to the frame of your home deteriorate. This leads to drafts and energy losses. A thorough inspection will identify the areas of concern and assist you in determining your window sash repairs options. Your level of comfort and skill level will determine if you are able to self-manage or need professional assistance with window repair. The scope of work is also influenced by historic status of the property and its the structural strength.

If cold air is getting through a drafty or drafty door or window, the furnace will be forced to work overtime to heat your home. This inefficiency increases your heating expenses, and can compromise the efficiency of your HVAC system. Drafts can also affect the quality of air inside and cause discomfort in the home by bringing in allergens, pollutants and humidity from outside.

A common sign of a drafty window is the feeling of cold air circulating through your home regardless of all windows and doors being closed. Other signs to be aware of are changes in temperature near the window, as well as condensation on the frame or sill.

Fortunately, fixing drafty windows is a relatively simple job that can lower the cost of energy and increase the comfort of your home. Start by inspecting the outside of the window. Look for areas of bare caulking or broken wood that exposes the window to cold air.

Examine the sash's interface with the frame. This includes the parting bead, and the staff bead. Examine the condition of the weather stripping on these points (felt strips or tape) to determine if they are intact and working. If not, it needs to be replaced.

Finally, consider the state of glazing putty. It is a hard putty that keeps panes of glass in place. Look for cracks or crumbling that expose the sash's surface to moisture which can cause mold issues and even damage the glass of windows.

Apply a fresh layer glazing putty on the inside of the window to fix the problem. To secure the glazing points use a flat-bladed screwdriver to push them into position. Then wrap a piece foam and fabric around each point to create an insulation layer against cold air.

Aesthetics

Window sash repairs can give old windows a fresh new look at a lower cost than a complete window replacement. A complete window replacement can be an expensive and time-consuming project, especially for older homes. Sometimes, repairing window sashes can bring back the original beauty of a home and increase its value as well.

It is crucial to pay attention to the condition and wear of window sashes in order to avoid any major issues. If you're not sure whether your windows require repair it's best to have them inspected by a professional. A sash repair is less expensive than replacing the entire window and will also help you save money on energy bills.

First, lower the upper sash down to the bottom. This is generally simple and will allow you to observe the "parting beads" that are the grooved bits on the rails which keep the two sliding sashes apart. Remove these with the blade of a small pry bar or a putty knife - they are usually nailed into place and stuck with paint so you need be cautious not to scratch them or the sash.

After removing the beads that separate, you will need to remove the pockets. They are pieces of wood inside the frame, low down, that give access to the sash weights. They are usually attached with nails. They may also be snagged with paint so you need to be careful. After the nails are removed then you can move the sash up and down to ensure it moves in a smooth manner.

If it's not, there might be problems with the counterweights, or the sash cords. After you've inspected them all, you can repair them if necessary.

Wooden windows are beautiful and natural that blends seamlessly with traditional and contemporary interiors. The options for staining and painting are endless. However, wooden sash windows cost windows require regular maintenance to prevent damage and decay.