Tips For Sash Window repair window glass (blog post from Haim)

Sash windows that leak or rattle require repair. Draughts, decaying woods, misaligned rails and sashweights are all things that need attention.

Pam first covers each pan with a layer of glazing compound. She then secures the glass with the glazier's points instead of pins to avoid breakage.

Weather Stripping

Weather stripping is a thin flexible strip of material used to seal the edges of doors and windows when they are closed. It blocks outside air and the toxins it carries. It stops drafts from blowing through the gaps, making your house too cold or letting noise from outside in. You can purchase ready-to-use material in a variety of sizes, or cut it to fit window sashes.

Install the strip between the meeting bar and sash for single-hung windows. The same procedure is applied to the upper and lower sashes. Additionally, you can install the same strips on the side of the frame to prevent rattling.

Double-hung windows need two sets of weather strips two on each side. You may also need to add strips inside the frame, near the bottom. The strips stop the window from slamming closed and repair window glass also stop bugs and dust from blowing in the gap between sash jamb and sash.

Before installing the weatherstripping, clean the frame of the sash with mild soap and warm water. Dry it using a soft cloth. The utility knife is used to scrape any caulk and paint from the inside of the stops. Carefully pry the stops loose with a putty knife to protect the frame. Replace the weather stripping.

The new weather stripping should be flexible enough to permit the sash's freedom of movement, but firm enough to stay in place when it is closed. Foam tape with adhesive backing is an extremely popular choice. It's simple to apply and repair window glass comes in many thicknesses to suit different needs. You can also use door sweeps available in a variety of sizes and types to fit a variety of doors and windows.

When you're preparing to install the new strip, make sure you compare the tabs of metal on the new sash with the tabs on your previous sash. If the tabs are a different shape, they will not fit into the the window repairing frame in the correct way and you'll have to remove the sash and start from scratch. Individual replacements for sash don't cost much so a complete window replacement isn't going to be a huge expense.

Sash Cords

If you're replacing sash cords, start by removing the outer parting beads thin pieces of wood that divide the inner and outer window frame. If they're nailed to the wall, a hammer and an appropriate nail set can be used. Be sure to lay down a tarp because sash windows can be messy and you'll be causing damage to paint and possibly rotting wood, especially in older homes. Also wear a mask, as the dust can contain lead.

Then, take out the upper sash as well as its cords. If you are not replacing the cords, cut them and knot them to prevent them from slipping through the holes. If you are replacing them, remove the nail that is holding each cord to the sash. Then, pull out the nails that secure each cord to the sash. If the pockets are still on the other side of the frame you can take them out using a nail set or a crowbar. You'll probably have scrape off some of the old sash cord material as well.

You can remove the outer sash once the pockets are opened. Then you'll be able observe the channels that the cords of sash pass on both sides. Make use of cotton sash ropes if you're replacing them. Cotton ropes last longer than synthetic cords that stretch and sag. You'll need to make sure that you have the proper amount of weight per sash. You can weigh them with a kitchen scale to be sure but the weights must be approximately half the size of the sash.

Reset the tilt pin if it's still in its position. You'll need to lift your sash a bit to do this, so make sure not to let it fall. Then, relock the pin. Then, you can install the new sash weight (the tube that contains the weights) and you're done! (Don't forget to check and relock the tilt pin that is on the upper sash.)

Parting Beads

The parting beads (vertical strips of wood holding the lower sash) and staff bead are an integral part of a sash's window. They are used to support the weights of sash windows and prevent water from getting in and form an airtight seal. If they're damaged or are in poor condition, it can lead to excessive rattle and draughts.

Make use of a sharp knife and cut across the joint of paint between the parting beads as well as the frame of the window sash repairs box. Look for screws or nails prior to gently removing the beads from their narrow grooves. They are designed to fit comfortably however they could be nailed in place. Take off any sash cords that have been nailed in place.

Once the parting beads are removed, you can remove the lower sash and remove the meeting rail (which overlaps the bottom sash of a double hung sash) from both sides. The meeting rail can be removed of the frame to allow you to view the window panes.

You can clean the sash windows and re-attach any sash furniture/ironmongery, lubricate the pulley axles & test the operation of the window. If you are having difficulty lifting or closing the window, it may be worthwhile to consider other sash balance systems. These are discussed in a different article.

To make the sash windows weather proof again, apply draught strip and paint (with an oil-based primer). You can also sand the surface to smooth it and then reapply multi-purpose Mastic. Apply a small amount fronting putty where the glazing rebate meets the internal sash upstand and front it into the putty with a fillet tool to create a smooth bevel, finish a few millimeters below the sightline. Replace the sash cables, re-tie any knots that need to be tied & rehang the window. Think about using white braided Marine cord or rope that is 6mm in diameter as it will last longer than cheaper cords that stretch over time. This will also allow you to close the sash windows by reducing the distance between the window repairman and the frame.

Glass

Most homeowners don't spend much time thinking about the mechanical workings of their windows However, they are happy when they open and close quickly and keep the air from outside out and the air inside in. If sash windows develop problems, however, it can be costly to repair them or replaced completely. Fortunately, there are plenty of alternatives to save money without the expense of a new windows.

One alternative is to have the window sash replaced with like-for-like designs that match your home's period style. Another option is to install laminated glass, which can keep your family safe from broken window repair shards of glass and minimize the transfer of UV rays. You can also opt for pattern or texture glass. This can offer privacy while still allowing natural light into the room. Draught-proof strips are also available to improve energy efficiency and reduce noise pollution.

It is not unusual for sash windows to become difficult to move as they've warped over the years. This could be due to the accumulation of moisture and the fluctuation in humidity that causes the wood to shrink and expand at different rates. In time, this may cause the sash's sash to expand and turn discolored and difficult to open and close.

The first step to take is to make sure that the frame of the sash is in good shape. If the wood is damaged or sagging, and there is lots of moisture, it must be fixed before any other work can be completed. This is a very expensive job that should be left to a professional window installers.

The next step is to replace a pane of glass after the sash frame is inspected. This can be done while the sash remains in place, but it is simpler to remove the frame and work on a table. Take off any glazing points and then the putty holding the glass in place. It is important to wear protective clothing during the procedure. The next step is to cut new glass to size and then place it into the frame using a glazing Hammer. The glass is very hard and is susceptible to cracking or breaking.