10 Unexpected Sash Window Repair Tips
Sash Window Repair Many homeowners fix their sash windows to improve their appearance or make their home more energy efficient. It can be done on a DIY basis, or a pro can provide the service. Full-frame replacements cost $150 to $500 depending on the material chosen and the condition of the window. Restoring the sash is a cheaper option. Glass Replacement The sash repair process involves a variety of tasks. These include stripping paint, steaming and scraping, resetting the glass and glazing putty and priming. These tasks are lengthy and tiring however they are necessary to ensure that your sash window appears and performs at its best. A restored sash window will add value and character to your home, while also reducing the cost of energy. If your windows are in poor condition, they might not operate properly or allow drafts to enter the home. It could be that the sash cords are broken or it could be that the sash is painted shut. The good thing is that this can be repaired without the need for the full replacement. A sash that has become stuck in the frame can be difficult to open and may create drafts and rattles when the wind blows. If the sash has been sealed but isn't broken, you can typically open it by using an utility knife to cut through the paint layers. If the sash is sticky, apply wax or silicone spray to the window tracks. It's also important to check that the sash weights are balanced and that the counterweights don't have any damage or rotting. This will ensure that the sash will be pulled open and closed. It's also worth checking if the sash has all its glass panes. When repairing the sash window process, you should also consider taking off the covers for pocket windows and scoring paint with a knife along the perimeter of each to remove it. This should be done with care to prevent damaging the timber. Once the sash is removed it can be cleaned by using an abrasive and a damp cloth. Once the sash is cleaned, it's ready to be reglazed, and then reinstalled. Most hardware stores sell glazing putty, which is composed of chalk and linseed. double glazed sash window is essential to add chalk to the putty to make it workable, as it will prevent it from sticking to your fingers when you apply it to the sash. It is essential to allow the sash to dry completely after bedding it. Weatherstripping A sash window has many moving parts that could get worn down or broken over time. The parts can be fixed to avoid further damage and to reduce energy losses. It is often possible to repair them by replacing the parts, which are cheaper than replacing the whole window. The process of repairing your double-hung, sliding or single-hung sash window is relatively easy. The first step is to remove the old sash from the frame. Based on the condition of your windows, this could be a breeze or require crowbar work to remove the sash from the frame. After the sash has been removed, you can inspect it for wear and tear. If you notice any signs of decay or damage, you can replace the components. These parts are usually inexpensive and easily available at your local hardware shop. Install the sash back into the frame, if it's in good condition. This will enhance the function of your window as well as provide a better seal against the elements. However, prior to installing your sash, make sure you apply a weather stripping to the sill as well as the top of the window. This will aid in keeping cold air out and warm air in during the winter months. There are a variety of different types of weather stripping available to choose from. Certain kinds are more durable than others, so be sure to choose one that is suitable for the application you're using it on. Foam tape, for example is made from closed or open cell foam, and has the back of a stick. This kind of weather stripping is perfect for sealing gaps around the bottom of a door or sash. Another kind of weather stripping is a stretchy strip made of EPDM rubber that's cut to length and then glued to the edges of a door or window frame. This kind of weather tape offers better seal than vinyl tape, and is generally more straightforward for installers to put in since it doesn't require an adhesive backing. Additionally, you can use a weather stripping with a flexible design like V-channel or a tension seal to cover the tracks and grooves in which the window moves. This will create a tight seal for the window even when it's closed and can reduce drafts. Sash Weights Many sash windows, even those in good condition, suffer from a range of problems which can cause replacement. Draughts, rattles and sticking are typical issues and other causes include decaying frames, broken glass bars and weights and cords for sash that have become damaged or become slack. Despite these issues, sash windows remain popular on many buildings. With careful renovation they can be rehabilitated to their previous glory. The most common sash window problem is a sash that gets stuck in its vertical position. Fortunately, this problem is easy to fix. A thin layer of silicone spray applied to the window tracks will aid in making the sash slide along more easily. To further ease the process steaming may be useful. If the buildup of paint is causing your sash stick to the window, you may need to use a utility blade to cut through the layers of paint. Be careful not to damage either the sash, or the frame. Take your time and work slowly. It can be difficult to reach the sashweights, but they can be removed and replaced in a sash window replacement. Utilizing the access panel, or by removing the pocket cover, open the window to access the sash weight pockets within the frame. Remove the old weights and install new ones, ensuring that they are properly balanced. After the sash has been dislodged from its vertical position an elongated pry bar can be used to gently pull it up and back into place. After it has been slid back into its original position, it is time to re-engage the balance pin and tilt shoe. Once the sash has been put back in place, lock it and test its operation. After all the repairs are done It's time to put things back together. Reinstall the sash and ensure that it is balanced and runs smoothly. Every piece of weatherstripping should be lubricated and secured to the side jambs with small brad nails. Reinstall the stop beads and make sure they are not too tight to restrict sash movement. Hardware Hardware for sash windows includes pulleys, cables and other parts that make the window easier to open and close. Over time, these parts may wear out, leading to stiffness in the sash. The parts can be replaced to restore the smooth operation of double-hung windows. A malfunctioning counterbalance may cause the sash to become stuck. This can be caused either due to a broken or loose cord or sash chain or pulley, or a malfunctioning one, or a sash weight. It is important to check these parts regularly to prevent any major issues later on. To remove a stuck sash you must break the paint seal. Put on gloves and use a flat pry-bar to gently break the paint seal around the vertical stile, the joining rail, and the sash pocket at the bottom. Depending on the age of the windows and in what condition the windows are, it could be necessary to cut the paint seam using a utility knife before you begin. This will allow you to take off the glazing putty without causing damage to the wood. Before reinstalling your sash, lubricate the sliding track with silicone-based grease to keep it moving at a steady pace. It is also crucial to ensure that the sash is aligned correctly, with even spacing and gaps between the edges. The sash is then covered with new glazing putty. Glazing putty is a mix of linseed oil and chalk It is crucial to add the correct amount of chalk to to ensure an even consistency. It should feel tacky but not sticky. It is essential to test the sash by raising it and lowering it. If the sash is still rigid it is likely that an old sash cable which needs to be replaced is likely to be the reason. Fortunately, this is an easy fix. Take the interior stops out and doors to access from each side jamb. Then, feed a new length sash cord through the pulleys on each side jamb. Then, you can attach the new sash cords to the sash and tie them at the pockets for sash weights. Finally, replace the access doors to conceal the sash weights.