How to Repair Timber Windows a Sash Window

Experts agree that restoring an old sash window is more environmentally efficient and economical than replacing them. Why not try it for yourself?

You can make your home more comfortable by addressing issues such as sticking sashes and draughts. Here are some suggestions to think about before you begin.

Damaged Sash Cords

When the cords that pull the sash up and Repair Timber windows down are worn out, it becomes difficult to open or close the window. In some instances, the cords could break. To fix this, sash cords must be replaced. This is an easy fix for any homeowner. It can be done in less than an hour in the case of just one lower sash.

Begin by preparing your work area and covering the floor with a tarp to catch any debris or nails that fall when you take down the window. Wear a mask if working on an older house to protect yourself from lead paint dust.

Take off the stop beads first. They are small pieces that are placed around the inside of the window frame to prevent the sash from sliding out. Then remove the window sash and place it on a workbench or table. Then, you'll be able to access the pockets for weights. They are cast-iron weights that are located behind the window frame. After you have removed the weights along with the old sashcords as well as the weights, you are able to replace them with new ones.

First, take a measurement of the length of the old cord to know the length to cut your new cord. Make a knot at the end of the new cord to keep it from slipping over the pulley that was previously in use. Then, you can plug your new cord into the access hole that you drilled into the panel cover. Then, put back the window sash and check its operation.

Finally, you must reinstall the panel cover and staff bead and make sure all nails are securely pushed into place and positioned beneath the surface of the wood, to avoid restricting sash movement or causing damage to the painted finish. If the sash doesn't move smoothly, seal the gap between the staff bead and the window with decorators caulk in order to limit draughts.

Once the caulk is dry then it's time to put back the sash and trim. If you're not comfortable with tools, you can hire a professional repair service to replace the sash cables for you. However, this is an expensive option. Most homeowners will opt for an easier DIY solution, which involves replacing the broken cords themselves.

Broken Sash Weights

The sash cords might be damaged if your window isn't closing or opening correctly. You can make your windows work again by replacing the old sash cable.

Start by getting rid of the screws that are holding the stop beads using a screwdriver. Then remove the sash from the window frame. Lift the access panels on the side jambs, in the event that they are there, for access to sash pulleys and sash weights. Remove the sash carefully from the frame and lay it on dust sheets, if possible to avoid damaging walls and paintwork in the process.

Take a look at the sash weights and pulleys and determine if they're the correct ones. If the sash seems to be heavy, you may have to add more weights in order to make it more balanced. If you don't have any lead sash weights, you can purchase them online or at your local hardware store.

Once you have the sash weights out of the pocket, remove any slack in the cords. Then feed the new sash cord through the pulley, and out the other end of the channel onto the sash. Then pull the cord up until it reaches the weight and tie a knot.

Repeat the procedure for the second cord. Re-insert the sash into frame of the window, making sure it is level. Replace the parting bead and staff bead, if needed and cover the gaps around them with decorators caulk.

The last step is to re-insert the inner sash stops. Get help from an expert if you're not sure how to go about it. After reinstalling the windows, test the windows to see if they are functional. You can then put back the window together by replacing the window trim and access panel covers and painting any damaged areas or covered by the repairs. Make sure the window is securely put up before you finish the installation. You can check this by placing it on the scale to verify that the two sash weights are equal in size. If they aren't, use lead 'make up' weights to help balance the sash.

Sashlocks that aren't functioning properly

A broken lock on the sash window is one of the more common reasons that a sash won't open or close properly. In some instances, this can be an easy fix. However, in other cases the lock may need to be replaced. A faulty lock can also be a security concern because it allows burglars to easily gain access to your house.

Window locks are made to to withstand the weight of the sash, but they can still wear down over time. This is due to the hardware being subjected to so much stress as well as to the natural movement of the foundation. If you're dealing with a faulty window lock, it's crucial to check for other problems that could cause it fail.

A misaligned interlock can be the cause of an sash lock that doesn't lock properly. A small alignment error could stop the keeper from engaging the latch, and thus preventing the door from closing. This is typically fixed by lifting up the bottom sash and pushing it into the room, so that the interlocks are aligned properly.

Rust buildup in the mechanism is a common cause of a sashlock that isn't working. A lot of older window frames are made of aluminum or wood, and they can corrode over time. The corrosion can then create a bond between the mechanisms and stop them from opening or closing properly.

In certain situations it's necessary to replace the entire sash lock fastener which can be done easily. It's a simple procedure that requires just the use of a few tools and patience. The first step is to remove the old fastener, and clean off any rust or debris from the surface. Then you can use a drill to make new holes for the screw and bolt. Then screw the new fastener in place and make sure it is secure.

This is a relatively straightforward task that can be done by the majority of homeowners, and it will ensure your window is both safe and secure. This is a fantastic way of reducing air infiltration and making your home more energy efficient.

Broken Glass Panes

Glass panes are often broken by errant baseballs, lawnmower blades and other debris. If this occurs, you need to decide whether to fix the glass pane or replace the entire window sash. Depending on the severity of the damage, you might require the removal of the metal glazing points as well as the glazing compound that surrounds the glass. When you repair a damaged or broken pane, ensure you wear gloves as well as a mask and eyewear. Cover your floor with a dropcloth to prevent glass particles from contaminating the floor repair timber windows and posing a threat to children or pets.

Before replacing the window pane, you'll need to remove the old pane and scrape any caulking or putty off the frame rabbets. These are the grooves inside the frame where the glass is located. If there's lots of putty, it may be required to employ a scraper that is a pull type or an old chisel, and tap lightly to avoid breaking the window. The use of heat guns is to soften old putty making it easier to get rid of. After taking off the old pane smooth the rabbets, and then apply a new caulking compound or Glaziers compound.

While the putty is drying while the putty is drying, prepare the new pane for installation by cleaning it and wiping it down with a damp sponge. If the glass is insulated, take off the insulation by cutting it away at the top and bottom of the pane using an utility knife. Then, you'll need to remove the glazing points of the metal that secure it by hammering them or pulling them out using a putty knife.

To replace the glass pane, roll the glazier's compound into a rope that is approximately 3/4 inch thick. Press it firmly into the rabbet around the edge of the glass, and into the wood sash. Fill any holes or gaps that may be present between the frame of putty and the glass. Give the putty time to dry completely before painting the window. Be sure to wear gloves that are protected and cover the work area with a drop cloth to keep it clean and shield yourself from glass shards that break.