Sash Window Repair
Sash windows may become old and insecure. They could leak or make noises. Sash window repair experts can help them return to their original state and give them a fresh coat of paint.
Pam describes her quest for replacement weights to trading horsesand she is able to find combinations that work. She also sprays the pulley axles with a light coating of lubricant to prevent future noises.
1. Glass that has cracked
Timber windows can show cracks in the glass as well as broken sash cables over time. These are common problems in older sash windows, however they are usually fixed without replacing the window.
Window glass that is cracked can be very dangerous, especially for children or elderly people living on their own, so a broken pane must be fixed as soon as possible. Mark the area you want to cut using an eraser prior to laying out the window pane. Next, use a metal straightedge and a glass cutting tool with a small wheel to mark the cutting line on the glass. Wear safety glasses and gloves when using the glass cutter.
Once the cut is made, carefully remove the glass and set it aside. Then, place the sash on a flat surface. Wear thick, cut-resistant gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself. Start by putting an X on the glass using painter's adhesive and then put tape on any areas in which the glass has shattering. This will aid in keeping the broken glass in one piece as you remove it from the frame.
After securing the glass with tape, remove any chains or cords and the separating beads. Soften the old, hardened putty with the help of a heat gun, then scrape it off using a putty knife. Carefully remove the sash and remove any hardware that has been fixed to it. Label the bag to determine where to put it back.
If your sash has stopped halfway up or down it might be due to a damaged pulley system. Professional sash window restorers can repair the spring balances and pulleys to make your window easier to operate. They can also add draught-proofing as well as weather-sealing to your timber windows, making them more comfortable and reducing utility bills. If you reside in an area that is listed or an area of conservation the company can put slimline double-glazing into your timber frames. This makes them more energy efficient.
2. Broken Sash
Sash windows are designed to open to let fresh air in. However, they can get stuck in time. This happens when a sash cord breaks and the window cannot longer be closed or opened. It is important to inspect your window to determine the source of the issue, if the sash has become stuck or cannot be opened. Once the root of the issue has been identified the solution can be implemented.
The first thing to check is whether the tabs of metal on either side of the sash have been fitted into the slots in the window frame. If the tabs have a different design they might not fit properly. This will cause the window to be not able to be elevated or lowered. A few simple screws can usually be removed to fix this.
It is then a good idea to take the sash at the bottom out and set it on flat surfaces. The "pockets" are the little doors that are on the left and the right side of the window. They were designed to fit snugly but have been pinched to the wall or screwed in throughout the years. A sharp utility knife could be used to cut along the paint joint and then gently prise them out.
Look for nails that are used to secure the pockets. If there aren't nails, try to pull the pockets free. It's helpful to have someone to hold the window because they can be quite heavy. If there are nails, you will need to use the blade on the small pry bar to break the nail heads - this can be quite difficult and at times it's better to simply replace them altogether.
The final task is to install the new sash into the opening, this is fairly simple after you have everything in place. If the bottom sash still cannot be removed it is possible to rebalance the window by attaching a counterweight and reconnecting the old cords. To accomplish this, you'll need to open the jambs to access the cast-iron weights.
3. Worn Paint
Once old paint has deteriorated it can cause rotting and a host of other issues. In some instances it may even obscure the window's original style and appearance, so it's always a good idea to get it replaced before things get too far.
If the rot is not so bad, it could be possible to sand the affected area before applying a wood-hardener to consolidate fibers. Once the epoxy filler is dry it is possible to repair the damaged area and form it to match surrounding wood. After the filler has dried and smooth, sand it, prime and then paint to repair the window.
Make sure the sash has been completely opened and is not stuck. After you've painted the lower section of the sash, it's now time to assemble and paint the upper frame. Paint the edges of the sash first, and then the rebate that the sash will be placed in the sash recess when it's closed and opened. If the sash doesn't sit vertically in the rebate after you put it in, you can use glazier's suggestions to fix it.
If you're ready to paint, make sure you use the right type of paint for your sash windows. Apply a few coats using either a brush or roller. It's essential to maintain the same thickness of paint so that the finish will appear consistent across every surface.
If you're painting the door repairman window, make sure you label each part so that you can return them to their proper locations later on. This is especially helpful when working on multiple sash windows at a time. It is necessary to unscrew any security fittings and take off the staff bead, before taking the lower sash out and removing the chains or cords on both sides. Once the sash is removed and the sash is removed, you can replace the pockets and beads for parting and seal the gaps with decorators caulk, and re-tighten sash cords. Once the job is complete, your sash window should be running smoothly again.
4. Rotten Timber
In a recent project in Highgate, our sash window team was confronted with decayed wood in the sash frame and the box. This is a common issue in older homes. Make sure that the putty seals and protects the glass and frames. A gap here can let moisture in and cause decay. It's easy to overlook, particularly when the sash doesn't move as easily because of high humidity or grime build up. With a little patience, some focus on the putty and a few simple maintenance on the sash, you can quickly fix this issue before it becomes an issue.
The first step is removing the old timber and replacing it with fresh wood. This can be accomplished using a mixture of pry bar and hammer, and chisel. Make sure the area is completely free of nails, wood or other debris that could hinder the re-construction of the sash once it is re-installed. The sash is rebuilt using timber splicing into the areas where the original rotten timber is present, and epoxy resin used on the remaining pieces of wood to form a lasting repair.
After the sash has been rebuilt, it's important to re-glaze the window. It's a fairly simple procedure that can be completed with the window open, or closed. It is essential to lower the sash cords when the sash has been opened. This will prevent the weights from falling and breaking. Reinstalling the sash once it's been repaired can be easy as putting the cords onto each pulley and then reconnecting the strip of separation.
Maintaining a regular schedule for timber maintenance and sash window maintenance can extend the life of your windows as well as reduce the need for extensive repairs to sash windows. Painting and caulking your windows, doors and trim will aid in preventing water and damp ingress. Additionally, checking the wood trim for signs of decay and monitoring it regularly will help you maintain your home in excellent condition and prevent costly sash windows repairs.