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Window Sash Repairs

The majority of homeowners don't think too much about window sashes -- as long as they open, close, and keep the outside air out and the inside air in. But over time, they can start to wear out, causing air leaks, drafts, or even sashes that stick.

The author uses an sash supported on an easel for working glazing points into the gap. He also scrapes paint off and then applies a wood preservative on the frame.

Sash Weights

If your windows are not opening and closing with ease, or are stuck, a faulty counterbalancing system could be the reason. This can be caused by a damaged or missing sash chain or a sashweight that is not aligned properly or not attached to a the sashweight, or even a broken or cracked pulley.

The sashweights are tiny boxes made of cast-iron that balance the counter-weight system and support the sash and case window repairs. They are found in the bottom rails of every window frame, covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut open to reveal their position. The panels can be removed to gain access to the weight pockets in the sash to clean, repair or replacement.

There could be an issue with the sashweights if you've been using your sash windows for over a period of time. They may be sagging or catch. This can be caused by the weights being too heavy (they are supposed to be a little heavier than the top sash window replacement) or because they were installed in a way that isn't correct (some users have disabled their weight systems by cutting them off and taking the weights out to save money, or turning them into scrap metal).

To resolve this issue take out the stops (the trim that runs along the inside of the window where it joins the frame to hold it in place). Place them aside. This will require you to be gentle in order to not damage the appearance of your overlapping rails. Then you can make use of a mallet or hammer to break up the stiles and rails and check them for damage or for any repairs that require to be made.

After you've checked the rails and stiles, lay down a few dust sheets and begin working on the sash itself. Start by removing the wood pegs from the mortise and tenon joints using pins and a hammer or screwdriver. After removing the pegs you can start disassembling the sash. Take off the sash stop moldings and any sash cords that are still attached.

The next step is to weigh the sash and determine the amount of weight is needed to ensure the proper functioning. You can purchase vintage replacement sashweights on the internet or in a few home improvement stores. Make sure you get the right size to avoid over - or under-weighing the sash.

Sash Cords

Sash cords that are worn or broken can cause problems with sash windows. Sash cords are constantly under pressure from the weights which can cause them break over time, particularly when they're not maintained properly. The sashes won't open or close as easily when the cords break. The issue could be caused by excessive force, ageing or a lack of maintenance or the buildup of moisture. During window sash repairs it is crucial to replace the old cords with new ones that are made from an material that lasts and resist moisture.

Begin by removing the inner stop strips, the thin wood strips that hold the sashes in place with a utility knife and a Chisel. Remove the stops off the sashes with care and be on the lookout for cracked or broken ones. After removing the stops, you can get access to the sashweights by opening up the jamb or taking out the weight pocket.

It takes a little extra effort to reach the sash cords, but with the right tools and a little bit of patience it is not difficult. First, take off the old cords by cutting them near their knots and pulling them free. Then, take the sash from the frame and set it aside. When the sash window repair is removed and you have pulled it down, grab the staff bead (the nail that keeps the sash from falling) and then insert one nail that is about one foot long into the hole for the staff bead. This will temporarily stop the sash from slipping away while you string the counterweights.

After reinstalling the upper sash, reattach the sash cords and ensure that the sashes are properly balanced and move smoothly. Install the lower sash and repeat the process. Make sure that the sashes have been properly placed and are moving smoothly.

Reattach the sash cables once you have put in the counterweights. Thread the cord through the pulleys, and then through the knot hole in the sash. Repeat this process for each side of the sash to ensure that the sashes work as intended again.

Air and Drafts Leaks

Over time, the materials that secure your sash window the frame of your home begin to degrade. This causes drafts and energy loss. A thorough inspection will identify the areas of concern and help you decide on your window sash repairs options. Your preferences regarding comfort and skill level influence whether you can self-manage window repairs to your sash or require professional assistance. The historical status of your property and structural integrity concerns also impact the scope of work necessary.

When cold air sneaks in through a drafty window, your furnace has to perform overtime to keep your house warm. This inefficiency can increase your heating expenses, and can compromise the efficiency of your HVAC system. Moreover, drafts disrupt your indoor comfort and reduce the quality of indoor air by pushing the infiltration of outdoor pollutants, allergens and humidity.

A typical sign of a drafty window is the sensation of cold air in your room regardless of windows and doors being closed. Other signs to look for are fluctuations in the temperature of your home near the window and condensation around the frame or sill.

Fixing drafty windows is a simple task, which will reduce your energy bills and increase comfort inside. First, look at the exterior of the window. Look for areas of bare caulking that is cracked or wood, which exposes the window to cold air.

Examine the sash's interface to the frame including the parting bead and staff bead. Examine the condition of weather stripping at these points (felt strips or tape) to determine if they are intact and functional. If not, it's time to be replaced.

Finally, consider the state of glazing putty, which is a tough putty that keeps panes of glass in place. Check for cracks or crumbling that expose the sash to moisture which could cause mold issues and even damage the windows' glass.

Apply a fresh layer of glazing putty on the outside of the window to correct the issue. With a flat-blade screwdriver push the glazing points into place to fix them. Then wrap a piece foam and a piece of fabric around each point to create an insulation agent against cold air.

Aesthetics

Window sash repairs can give old windows a fresh new look with less expense than an entire window replacement. A complete window replacement could be a costly and time-consuming undertaking, particularly for older homes. Sometimes, repairing window sashes can restore the original appeal of a house and add value to it as well.

Monitoring the condition of your window sashes is crucial to avoid major problems. It's best to consult an expert if unsure if your windows need repair. The cost of a sash repair is often much cheaper than the cost to replace the whole window, and can save your home energy costs as well.

The first step is to lower the upper sash down to the bottom. This is generally easy and will help you get an excellent view of the "parting beads" (these are the grooved bits in the meeting rail on either side that keep the 2 sliding sashes separate). Remove these with the blade of a small pry bar or a putty knife they are typically nailed in the right place and are covered with paint so you need be cautious not to harm them or the sash.

After removing the parting beads you'll have to remove the pockets. These are small pieces of wood that are screwed to the frame at the bottom. They allow access to the sashweights. Once they've been removed, the sash may be moved up and down to check that it is moving smoothly.

If it doesn't, it could be a problem with the counterweights, or the sash cords. After you've checked them all you can repair them if needed.

Wooden windows have a natural beauty that blends in with both modern and traditional style interiors. They are also highly customizable with a variety of colors and stain choices. However, wooden double glazed sash windows windows do require regular maintenance to prevent damage and decay.