Sash Windows Repair
Pam tries to salvage the original window. She uses a heat gun set on medium and fitted with a nozzle shield to soften old, hardened putty (glazing compound) and a putty knife to scrape it away.
She then ties the bottom sash cords in a way that they don't pull into the pockets for weights, and then removes the metal hardware. She then stores it in a labeled bag.
Repairing the Sash
Even if they are properly maintained and repaired, old wood windows may not be able to open and close as easily. This issue could be due to misaligned hardware that is relatively simple to fix, or it could be due to the wood's swelling and contraction due to the fluctuation in humidity levels. The replacement of the wooden window sash can help your window run more efficiently and effortlessly.
To take off the lower sash, first locate the wooden peg(s) that keep the stile and rail together. Then, using a mallet or soft-faced hammer (to prevent damage to the sash), gently separate the stile and rail. Then, remove the muntins (the horizontal and vertical pieces that separate the glass panes). After removing the muntins lift the sash and place it on the table or work bench. Take the sash cords off. Cut them to the point at which they connect.
After cleaning the window, reassemble it. The author covers each reassembled sash with glazing compound using the small pry bar atop a stiff-bladed knife, and then secures them with glazier's points (one point on each side of the sash). She adds a sash-stop to stop it from being completely pulled down.
If you're going to reuse the sash cords, it's recommended to tie the back end of each to a pin or nail protruding from the top of the staff bead - this will hold the weight in place until you can connect the other end to the sash. After the cord is secured then, temporarily nail or pin the weight to the staff bead with the head still protruding to prevent the weight from sliding out of its place in the process.
After the sash has been reassembled, it can be hung onto its frame. The track made of vinyl can be reinstalled. The terminals for the lock are replaced by releasing the pawls on each terminal, twisting them in the opposite direction to reset the tension.
Restoring the Frame
The elements can have a huge impact on both the interior and exterior of your sash windows and it is often the scenario that the frame is more deteriorated than the sash. The frame is more exposed to the elements, particularly in older homes where sills were not angled as they are now. This can lead to water residue building up on the sill that, over time can cause the wood to begin to rot. If not taken care of the rot may extend to the rest of the frame and weaken its structural integrity.
A specialist window restoration service will restore your sash, and improve its energy efficiency. They can also install discrete brush pile strips to help reduce drafts and stop rattling, without compromising the character of the window.
Restoring your sash windows is more cost-effective than replacing them and give a touch of the past to your home. A company of high quality will be able restore your sash window and keep them in the best condition for years to come.
Before attempting to repair a sash window it is important to make sure the hardware is operating properly and there are no leaks. If the sash can't be shut and opened it might need to be replaced.
After the sash has been removed and the old glazing putty can be scraped away and the frames cleaned down to bare wood when needed. After repair of the damaged areas using a top-quality wood filler like Expoxy HighBuild, the frames can be sanded to eliminate any bumps and unevenness. After sanding, the repaired repair double glazed windows area is primed and painted to protect it against moisture and the weather.
Another common problem with older sash windows is that the muntins (vertical and horizontal pieces of wood that divide each glass pane) could break off or completely fall out. This is usually caused by decayed or soft wood and can be prevented by regular inspections and maintenance. Regular application of a wood preserver such as linseed oil or varnish can keep the timbers protected, and allow you to spot any potential issues before they become too serious.
Restoring the Glass
If a window is older, it starts to show signs of wear and wear and tear. Paint may chip, wood may rot or glass can break. If this happens, it's time to consider sash windows repair.
The sash is an element of the window that houses both the glazing bars and actual glass. The sash moves upwards and downwards to open and close the window. The movement is supported by the system of weights and cords.
To keep wooden sash windows in good condition They must be maintained regularly. If left untreated the sash may begin to develop mildew, mold or become rotten. The sash of wood can expand and contract with changes in humidity when exposed to the elements. This can cause the window frame to become stuck or blocked.
Cleaning the glass and glazing bars and removing any dust or dirt built up on them is the initial step to restore the sash. This is a good time to replace any worn weather strip. If there is no weather strip to be installed, it can be attached to the bottom of the sash and either a silicone or Teflon spray can be used to grease the pulley axles.
It is a good practice to inspect the wood for damage after the sash has been cleaned and repaired. A screwdriver test could be performed to see whether the wood is soft or decayed, in which case it needs to be replaced. The wood that is rotten is replaced with fresh timber primed and then painted.
Draught-proofing the window is another method to improve its acoustic qualities. This is done by injecting heavy gases into the gaps between the panes of glass to limit the amount of air that passes through. This can increase the thermal efficiency and also reduce noise from outside. Draught-proofing can also reduce heating and cooling costs. This is particularly relevant in Minnesota, where energy bills can be very high. Repairing your sash windows and draught-proofed can make a big difference to the living space.
Restoring the Muntins
Using the right techniques If you follow the right methods, even damaged muntins may be repaired. The first step is to shield the glass with strips of painter's tape. Apply a slow-setting epoxy coating to the damaged muntin. Once the epoxy has dried, use a scraper and sculpt it to resemble a pristine profile. Finally clean the window using a rag soaked in white vinegar. Sand it smooth prior to applying another coat of epoxy.
After fixing the frame, sash and glazing bars, you're now ready to paint the window. At this stage you have the option to purchase new restoration glass from a retailer or salvage old window panes from salvage yards. If you are searching for glass at a salvage yard, make sure you look for panes that are either of the proper size or 4 inches larger than the ones you have now. This will allow you to cut the glass to fit.
The upper and lower sashes slide inside the frame and are held together by two rails (the horizontal strips that support the sash) and stiles (the vertical pieces that link them). Sash windows also have an intricate arrangement of timber components: sash horns with a profile and sash guts around glazing, scotia mouldings, and precisely-crafted parting beads and staff beads. All of these parts are required to work in harmony which requires precise millimetre gaps as well as the use of pulleys and weights that are concealed in the frame.
When old windows are reglazed using insulated glass units, the original stiles and rails often get removed to accommodate the greater thickness of the new glass. This can not only decrease the transparency of the individual lights but it can compromise the structural integrity of the sash and cause damage over time.
To avoid this, a lot of homeowners opt to remove the existing sash and reframe the window instead. This requires a substantial investment, but it is typically less expensive than replacing the entire window. It will also preserve your home's heritage features. Furthermore, it won't affect the overall energy efficiency of your house. So whether you're in need of a quick solution or looking for an investment that will last for a long time, restoring sash windows is a great alternative to consider.