Sash Windows Repair and Replacement
A rotting sill is a clear indicator that your sash window is in need of repair or replacement. Call a specialist as soon as you notice any signs of wood decay.
A reputable restoration service will ensure that they strip paint-encrusted hardware before removing the sash. They will then reconnect the sash cords and chains or cords, and the parting beads.
Weatherstripping
Sash windows require a lot of weatherstripping to block wind and cold. This is especially true when the window is opened horizontally rather than vertically, since the sash can move up and down as well as in and out. The weatherstripping you use must be able to withstand heat, friction and wear, yet allow the sash to be opened and closed easily. Pam utilizes foam tape or felt to close the bottom of her lower sash. She also puts V channel weatherstripping on the frame. These products are easy to install and cost-effective. They can be put in even by people who aren't carpenters.
Installing the weatherstripping is as simple as cutting a length of it to fit between the sill of the sash and its bottom. Install the weatherstripping first if you have an old sash that has no weatherstripping. Then, put in the sash's weather stripping. This will prevent drafts, and air leaks.
When you're ready to put up your new glazing compound, put it on the panes in place and mark them using pencil or painter's mark (Pam has broken a number of panes trying to save damaged ones over the years). Then, take off the parting stops and then pull off the cords and chains, if they're still attached.
Once the sash is empty, Pam uses her heat gun to soften the old glazing compound, and then remove it with a chisel. It is important to melt the glazing compound slowly and remove only the necessary amount.
Pam presses a rope or rabbet made of glazing compound around the glass to secure it within the sash. She also places the glazier's points evenly within the sash on both sides. They shouldn't be further than 12 inches apart.
Once the sash is in its final position Pam makes sure that it closes and opens easily, and if it does not she adjusts the chains or cords. She then cleans and lubricates with pulley oil the furniture, the sash meeting rail, and the sash stops.
Glass
Broken glass is usually the most significant issue with an old sash windows. This could be caused by an errant splinter or the window getting hit with the broomstick or a broom stick, and it is difficult to replace without damaging the surrounding panes of glass.
It is worth attempting to repair the existing glass before considering replacing it. If the damage is in a non-moving part of the window, it may be possible to exchange the damaged pane, without removing the entire sash out of the frame. The trick is to find a pane that matches the existing style and size of the glass that is in the rest of the frame.
To fit a replacement, you'll need to remove the top and bottom of the window. This is simpler for older timber frames than for modern vinyl or fiberglass ones. However, this could be tricky as the sash might be stuck in place by a balancing mechanism that has to be preserved. If this is the situation, you will need to replace the mechanism that weighs with a spring balance kit.
You'll need to take measurements of the height and width to replace the glass. Then, select the smallest measurement for both and choose a sash that will be exactly the same size as these measurements. This will ensure that your frame will fit and will not be too tight or too loose.
There are a variety of different options of glazing for sash windows, including 4mm toughened and 6.4mm laminate safety glass. While these won't help with heat insulation, they do provide good resistance to damage and are legally required for windows below 800mm from the ground.
To get a higher level of insulation, it's worth converting to double glazing. It can be costly however, you'll save money on energy bills and make your home warmer. You could also consider buying windows that have double glazing. These can be made with traditional timber frames or uPVC and are more efficient than single-glazed old windows.
Frame
As sash windows get older, they may become damaged and stop opening. This can pose a safety risk to your home since you won't be permitted to let in any fresh air. There are solutions to these issues.
The cord that holds the sash can be replaced if damaged. The window will not be able to open in the absence of a counterbalance weight holding the sash. This is why it is crucial to repair any issues with the cord prior to you attempt to open the window.
A good quality sash is constructed from a sturdy wood that is extremely durable. They are also a great insulation, which can help keep your home warm in the winter and cool during the summer. These qualities make them a popular option for homeowners. However, like all wooden products, they require regular maintenance and are prone to damage by repair timber windows insects and moisture.
Wooden window sashes are easily replaced and there are a variety of companies that offer replacement parts for older windows. They also offer an opportunity to refurbish windows and frames. They can be painted again and they often use an air draughtproofing system to improve the energy efficiency of your house.
Since sash windows have been around for decades and even centuries they require regular maintenance. Sash windows are often the ones most affected by the weather and sun, which can lead to the window's condition over time. In some cases, a small repair is enough however in other cases, more extensive work is required to restore the window.
When you repair sash windows it is important to take the time to disassemble the frame and sash. The amount of wood that is original must be maximized. This can be done by removing damaged or rotten sections of the wood. The rotten wood is replaced with fresh wood that is matched to the original timber as closely as it is possible. The wood is then treated using a mixture of one-half mineral spirits and one-half boiled the linseed oil. The mixture is left to dry for at least two days prior to painting the sash.