Anybody that owns a period home will have been through the frustration of having the older sliding windows that just will not work properly. Most resort to removing the offensive panes and replacing it with modern versions. However when one considers that many have been around for more than 120 years it may seem that undertaking sash window repairs a much better decision.
Made by hand means that the panels tend to be extremely heavy and therefore if not looked after over long periods of time glitches occur. Despite what one may think, repairing these windows is not that difficult. Normally comprising of two separate panels known as a sash which slides into position individually.
These panels move up and down the inside of a boxed framed by means of a counter balance theory. Besides the problems with movement many tend to allow noise and breezes into the home. This results from the way the frame is designed to keep the working mechanisms of the window and is quick to repair.
There are a few steps that need to be taken to repair or maintain one of these "old timers". Firstly a person will need to dismantle the entire window. The lower sash is held in place by two thin strips of wood which can be gently removed using a chisel and rubber hammer. On removal of this wood strip on either side the bottom part can be removed.
If the sash cording prevents it from coming out due to it being attached, it can safely be cut. Taking care that the weight at the end of the cord does not fall into an opening that is present at the bottom. Removal of the top sashes entails somewhat the same steps. Once both are removed it is best to replace the full length of cord on both sides of the window to ensure that repairs will last for longer periods of time.
The frame has lower compartments that house the main iron weight; another wood panel must be removed in order to expose these long heavy bars. These panels should not be difficult to remove unless some one else screwed it into place then it may take a little more time to expose this pocket.
Here a person will have access to the pulley mechanisms which may be copper, brass or iron. Some blame can be placed on this item not working smoothly. But a good clean to remove dirt followed with a few drops of oil is all it may need. However if it is damaged then one will have to buy a replacement part which is available in a modern plastic form.
Next is the usual obvious problem and that is the replacement of a broken cord. As mentioned before it is best to do the full length and one must make sure that a thick 8-string cord is purchased. The cord must be cut into 2 pieces, make sure to add extra length and then put it through the pulley at the top.
Thread the loose end into the long weights from the top out through the side and then tie a secure knot in place to stop it from pulling back through the hole. Cut the extra cord from the knots and use the cord to pull the long weight back inside the pocket. Close the compartment up and then tie the other end of the cording onto the sash. To make this easier it is best that the window sashes are angled while both ends are aligned by drawing the weight up into the pulley for accuracy.
Do the above steps for both the top and bottom sashes to ensure that both operate smoothly. Tack the wooden "beads" into place to secure the window and that is a Sash window repair completed. To seal any draughts a patented brush pile system can be installed as well.
If the correct steps are done correctly when doing your sash window repairs, you may find that you only have to do the job over in about fifteen or so years time. There is a lot to consider when taking on a project such as this, so make sure you know what you are doing. In the event that you need assistance, do not hesitate to call one of the many experienced professionals for advice.
Made by hand means that the panels tend to be extremely heavy and therefore if not looked after over long periods of time glitches occur. Despite what one may think, repairing these windows is not that difficult. Normally comprising of two separate panels known as a sash which slides into position individually.
These panels move up and down the inside of a boxed framed by means of a counter balance theory. Besides the problems with movement many tend to allow noise and breezes into the home. This results from the way the frame is designed to keep the working mechanisms of the window and is quick to repair.
There are a few steps that need to be taken to repair or maintain one of these "old timers". Firstly a person will need to dismantle the entire window. The lower sash is held in place by two thin strips of wood which can be gently removed using a chisel and rubber hammer. On removal of this wood strip on either side the bottom part can be removed.
If the sash cording prevents it from coming out due to it being attached, it can safely be cut. Taking care that the weight at the end of the cord does not fall into an opening that is present at the bottom. Removal of the top sashes entails somewhat the same steps. Once both are removed it is best to replace the full length of cord on both sides of the window to ensure that repairs will last for longer periods of time.
The frame has lower compartments that house the main iron weight; another wood panel must be removed in order to expose these long heavy bars. These panels should not be difficult to remove unless some one else screwed it into place then it may take a little more time to expose this pocket.
Here a person will have access to the pulley mechanisms which may be copper, brass or iron. Some blame can be placed on this item not working smoothly. But a good clean to remove dirt followed with a few drops of oil is all it may need. However if it is damaged then one will have to buy a replacement part which is available in a modern plastic form.
Next is the usual obvious problem and that is the replacement of a broken cord. As mentioned before it is best to do the full length and one must make sure that a thick 8-string cord is purchased. The cord must be cut into 2 pieces, make sure to add extra length and then put it through the pulley at the top.
Thread the loose end into the long weights from the top out through the side and then tie a secure knot in place to stop it from pulling back through the hole. Cut the extra cord from the knots and use the cord to pull the long weight back inside the pocket. Close the compartment up and then tie the other end of the cording onto the sash. To make this easier it is best that the window sashes are angled while both ends are aligned by drawing the weight up into the pulley for accuracy.
Do the above steps for both the top and bottom sashes to ensure that both operate smoothly. Tack the wooden "beads" into place to secure the window and that is a Sash window repair completed. To seal any draughts a patented brush pile system can be installed as well.
If the correct steps are done correctly when doing your sash window repairs, you may find that you only have to do the job over in about fifteen or so years time. There is a lot to consider when taking on a project such as this, so make sure you know what you are doing. In the event that you need assistance, do not hesitate to call one of the many experienced professionals for advice.
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