Sash Windows Repair
Pam attempts to salvage as much of the original window as possible. She uses a heatgun set to medium and a nozzle guard to soften the old, hardened glazing compound (putty) and then a putty blade to scrape the old compound off.
She then knots the sash cords on the bottom to keep them from slipping into weight pockets and removes its hardware. She then stores it in a bag with a label.
Repairing the Sash
Old wooden windows, even when well maintained and repaired, might not be able to open and close as smoothly as they ought to. This issue could be due to misaligned hardware that is relatively simple to fix, or it could be the result of the wood expanding and contracting due to the fluctuation in humidity levels. The replacement of the wooden window sash can make your window function more efficiently and effortlessly.
To take off the lower sash, first locate the wooden peg(s) that hold the rail and stile together. Then, using a mallet or soft-faced hammer (to avoid damage to the sash), gently separate the rail and stile. Then, you can remove the muntins (the horizontal and vertical pieces that are what separate the glass panes). After removing the muntins, lift the sash and rest it on the table or workbench. Remove the sash cords. Cut them to the point where they are tacked.
After the window is fully cleaned, it's time to start reassembling it. The author uses a small pry bar to apply glazing compound over a stiff-bladed, putty knife. She then attaches each window sash that has been reassembled by using the glazier's tips (one on each side). She adds a sash-stop to prevent it from being pulled completely down.
If you're using the sash cords, it's a good idea to connect the back end of each to a pin or nail protruding from the top of the staff bead. this will keep the weight up until you can connect the other end to the sash. Once the cord is secured, you should temporarily nail or pin the weight to the bead. Leave the head protruding so that the weight isn't slipping out of place.
After the sash is reassembled, it should be placed in its frame. The track on vinyl can be put back on and, finally, the lock terminals may be replaced by releasing each pawl from its locking terminal before twisting them counterclockwise to adjust their tension.
Restoring the Frame
The elements can have a big impact on the interior and exterior of your sash windows and it's usually the situation that the frame will be more damaged than the sash. The frame is more susceptible to the elements, especially in older houses where the sills were not sloped like they are today. This can result in water residue building up on the sill, which over time can cause the wood to begin to rot. If not addressed the rot may extend to the rest of the frame and weaken the structural integrity of the frame.
A specialist window restoration firm can repair your sash windows and improve their energy efficiency. They can also install brush pile strips to prevent drafts from entering the window from shaking.
Having your sash windows restored is more cost-effective than replacement and will bring back a sense of history to your home. A company with a high-end reputation will be able restore your sash window and maintain them in good condition for many years.
Before attempting to fix a sash window it is important to make sure the hardware is functioning properly and that there are no leaks. If the sash can't be shut and opened it might need to be replaced.
After removing the sash, the old glazing putty must be removed and the frames cleaned to the bare wood, if needed. The damaged areas can then be repaired using a high quality wood filler, such as Expoxy High Build, and sanded to remove any bumps or unevenness. After sanding the area, it is then able to be primed and finally painted to protect against moisture and the elements.
Another common problem with windows made of sash is that the muntins (vertical and horizontal pieces of wood that separate the glass panes) can dislodge or fall out completely. This is typically caused by decayed or soft wood and can be prevented through regular inspections and maintenance. Regularly applying wood preservatives, such as linseed or varnish will ensure the timbers are protected and let you spot possible issues before they become serious.
Restoring the Glass
When a window is old, it begins to begin to show signs of wear. The paint may start to chip, the wood may start to decay, or the glass can break. If this happens, it's the time for a sash window repair.
The sash is a part of the window that houses the glazing bars as well as actual glass. The sash is moved up and down to open and close the window. The movement is aided by cords and weights.
To keep wooden sash windows in good condition they must be maintained regularly. If the sash is not treated, it may begin to develop mold, mildew or even rot. The sash made of wood will expand and contract in response to changes in humidity after being exposed to the elements. This can cause windows to get stuck or jammed in its frame.
Cleaning the glass and glazing bars and removing any dust or dirt built up on them is the first step to restore the sash. It's also a good occasion to replace the worn weather strip. If there isn't a weather strip, you could add one to the bottom of your sash. You can also use a silicone spray or Teflon to lubricate pulley axles.
After the sash is cleaned and reglazed it is recommended to examine the timber for damage. The wood can be examined with a screwdriver in order to determine if it is soft or rotten. If it is, the wood will need to be replaced. The wood that has rotted is replaced with new wood, primed and painted.
Draught-proofing windows is a different option to enhance its acoustic properties. To decrease the amount of air that passes between the glass panes, heavy gases are infiltrated into the gaps. This can significantly improve the thermal efficiency of the window as well as reduce the noise from outside. The addition of draught-proofing could also help reduce cooling and heating bills. This is especially important in Minnesota where energy costs can be very high. The repair of your sash windows and draught-proofed can greatly improve the comfort of your home.
Restoring the Muntins
If you use the double glazed window repairs right techniques, even damaged muntins can be repaired. The first step is to cover the glass with strips of painter's tape. Then, apply a coat of slow-setting epoxy to the damaged muntin. After the epoxy is dry, use a scraper to sculpt it into an undamaged profile. Then, using a rag dampened in white vinegar, scrub the window and smooth before applying a second coat of epoxy.
After repairing the frame, sash and glazing bars, you are ready to paint the window. At this point you can decide to purchase a new restoration glass from a dealer or salvage old window panes from an auction house. If you're looking for glass at a salvage yard, make sure you look for panes that are either the correct size or 4 inches larger than your current ones. This makes it easier to trim the glass to fit.
The lower and upper sashes are joined by two sets rails, which are horizontal strips that help keep them in position. Stiles are the vertical pieces that connect the two. Sash windows also feature a sophisticated arrangement of timber parts: sash horns that are profiled and sash guts around the glazing mouldings made of scotia, precisely-crafted parting beads and staff beads. All of these components must work together seamlessly, requiring millimetre-specific gap sizes and a hidden system of pulleys and weights.
When windows are reglazed to fit glass that is insulated, the original stiles, rails and frames are often removed to accommodate the newer, thicker glazing. This can not only decrease the transparency of individual lights, it can also affect the structural strength of the sash and cause the sash becoming damaged over time.
Many homeowners choose to remove the existing sash instead and frame their windows. This is a substantial investment, but it is usually less expensive than replacing the entire window. It will also help preserve your home’s heritage features. Additionally, it won't compromise the overall energy efficiency of your home. Sash window restoration is an excellent option regardless of whether you are seeking a quick fix or an investment for the long term.