How to Repair a Sash Window

Experts agree that restoring an old windows made of sash is more environmentally friendly and cost-effective than replacing them. So, why not try it yourself?

The solution to issues like sashes that are stuck and draughts and visible damage can make your home more comfortable. Before you begin, think about these things.

Damaged Sash Cords

If the cords that pull the sash upwards or down wear out, it is difficult to open and close the window. In some instances, the cords could break. Sash cords need to be replaced to resolve this issue. This is an easy fix for homeowners of all kinds. It can be accomplished in less than an hour if you are working on just one lower sash.

Prepare your work space by covering the floor in a tarp. This will catch any debris that might fall or loose nails as you take down the window. Wear a mask if working on an older home to protect yourself from lead paint dust.

Begin by removing the stop beads, which are tiny pieces of wood that line the window frame's inner frame and prevent the sash from sliding out of the window frame. Then remove the window sash, fitting and place it on a table or workbench. It is now possible to access the cast-iron weights which are behind the window frame. Once you have removed the weights, the old sashcords and the weights, you can replace them with the new ones.

The first step is to measure the length of the old cord to know how long to cut your new cord. Then tie a knot on the end of your new cord, so it can't slip over the top of the pulley that was previously in use. Now you can feed your new cord into the access hole you drilled into the panel cover. Then, reinstall the window sash and verify its operation.

Install the panel cover, staff bead, and check that all nails are securely inserted into the window box. Make sure they are set below the surface level of the wood in order to prevent damaging the paint finish or restricting the sash's movements. If the sash continues to not slide smoothly, seal the gap between the staff bead and the window box with decorators caulk to reduce the draughts.

After the caulk has dried and the trim is reinstalled, it's time to replace the sash and trim. If you are not confident with tools, you can hire an expert repair service to repair the sash cable for you. However, this is an expensive alternative. Many homeowners prefer a more DIY solution, which entails replacing the broken cords themselves.

Broken Sash Weights

If your sash windows aren't opening and closing properly it might be because the sash cables are damaged. You can get your repairing windows working again by replacing the old sash cables.

Start by taking off the screws that hold the stop beads with the help of a screwdriver. Then, lift the sash from the window frame. If there are access panels on the jambs, open them to access the sash pulleys as well as the weights. Carefully remove the sash from the frame and lay down dust sheets, if you are able to avoid damage to walls and paintwork in the process.

Examine the pulleys and sashweights and sash for sure they're in order. You may need to balance a sash that is heavy. You can purchase lead sashweights online or from your local hardware store if don't have them.

Once you have the sash weights removed of the pocket, remove any excess cords. Then, feed the new cord through the pulley, and out the other side of the channel. Then pull the cord up until it hits the weight and fitting tie a knot.

Repeat the process for the second sash cord. Re-insert the sash into frame of the window, ensuring it is level. If necessary, replace the parting bead or staff bead. Fill in the gaps around these with decorators caulk.

The final step is to reinstall the sash stop inside. Ask an expert for assistance if you're not sure how to do it. After you have reinstalled them, check the windows to be sure they are in working order. You can then finish putting back the window by replacing the trim on the window, access panel covers, and painting any areas damaged or covered in the repair. Ensure the window is well hung before you finish the process of putting it back in place. You can verify this by placing it on a scale to make sure that the two sash weights are equal in size. If they're not, make use of lead'make-up' weights to make sure that the sash is balanced.

Sash Locks with a problem

One of the main reasons why a sash can not shut or open correctly is a damaged lock. In some cases this can be a straightforward fix, but in other cases it may require a full replacement of the lock. A faulty lock is also an issue for security, since it can provide an easy way for burglars to gain access to your home.

The window locks are constructed to withstand the load however, they can wear over time. This is due to the hardware being exposed to such a high amount of stress, and also the natural movement of the house's foundation. If you're experiencing issues with a defective window repairing lock, it's crucial to check for other problems that could cause it fail.

If your sash lock doesn't seem to be locking correctly, it could be due to a misaligned interlock. A slight error in alignment can prevent the keeper from engaging the latch and preventing the door from closing. This is typically corrected by lifting the bottom sash and pushing it into the room, so that the interlocks are properly aligned.

Rust buildup in the mechanism is another common reason why a sashlock isn't working. Many older window frames are made of aluminum or wood, and they can corrode over time. This corrosion could bind the mechanisms and prevent them from functioning effectively.

In certain instances, it might be necessary to replace the entire sash-lock fastener. This can be done easily. This is a simple job that requires only a bit of patience and a few tools. First, you'll need to take off the old fastener and clean off any rust or debris off the surface. Then, you can employ a drill to create new holes for the bolt and screw. Then, you'll need screw the new fastener into place and make sure it's secure.

This is a simple job that can be accomplished by most homeowners, and will ensure that your window repair man is both safe and secure. This is a great method to reduce air infiltration while making your home more energy efficient.

Broken Glass Panes

Glass panes can be broken by lawnmowers' knives, baseballs and other debris. You must decide if you need to replace the window sash or repair the glass pane. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may have to take off the metal glazing points and the glazing compound that surrounds the glass. When you repair a damaged or broken pane, make sure to wear gloves, a mask and protective eyewear. You should also cover your floor with drop cloths to stop small glass particles from getting into your work area and creating a hazard for children or pets.

Before you can replace the window pane, it is necessary remove the old pane and scrape any old caulking, or putty from the frame rabbets. These are the grooves within the frame that the glass will be placed. If there's a lot of putty it might be necessary to employ a scraper that is a pull type or an old chisel to tap lightly to prevent cracking the window. Heat guns can be used to soften old putty making it easier to get rid of. Once you've removed the old pane as well as its glazing then sand the rabbets in order to smooth them. Then, apply new caulking or glaziers' compound with the same dimensions as the opening that was originally used.

While the putty dries, prepare the new glass for installation by cleaning and wiping it with a damp sponge. If the glass is insulated then remove the insulation by cutting it away at the top and bottom of the pane using an utility knife. You'll then need to remove the metal glazing points that hold it in place by hammering or pulling them out with a putty knife.

To replace the glass pane that was glazed, roll a length of glaziers' compound into a rope of about 3/4 inch thick. Press it into the rabbet around the glass's edges and with a firm grip on the wood sash. After you're done, if there are any gaps or holes between the frame and the putty then fill them in with more compound. Let the putty dry completely before painting the window. Make sure you wear gloves to protect yourself and cover your work area with drop cloths to keep it clean and shield yourself from glass shards that break.