Sash Window Restoration
A sash window restoration starts with proper stripping to expose the original wood surface. This process should be left to a professional in order to avoid damaging delicate components.
The wood that has become rotten or damaged is carefully removed, and then treated by a wood hardener, which is resistant to water. New wood is added when needed. Wood filler is then applied and shaped before being smoothed before painting.
Frame
The frame of a window is an essential part of the overall appearance and must be in good condition so that the sash can fit properly. Window frames are typically made of timber and may be either painted or stained. It is also possible that they have a little rot in the corners. This should be identified and treated accordingly to stop it from spreading and causing further damage.
When you are restoring a sash window, it's recommended that you make use of a sash kit that includes all the components needed to complete the job. This will save you time and money, as well as make sure that the work is done right. The sash kit from Fenster includes everything you need to restore the window to its original splendor.
After you've purchased your sash kits, make sure to open them and read the instructions. You'll be grateful that you did, as the sash assembly process can be difficult and time-consuming. Begin by carefully removing interior stops of the lower sash. It's important to remove these without damaging the wood. They may have been painted over. Take note of the way they're attached, as they'll require reinstallation later on.
Then, carefully remove upper sash. If it's painted it, you'll need a knife that can cut through the paint without damaging the wood. After removing the sash, remove any sash chains or cords and put it in a safe location. The next step is to take the parting bead off the meeting rail of the upper sash. It's a thin strip of wood that separates the bottom and top sashes and is fragile due to aging.
After removing the sash, you'll need to scrape the wood surface and then remove any old glazing putty. You can buy a wood scraper, or build your own using framing lumber. Either way, it's important to use a high-quality scraper that won't scratch or harm the wood. Wear a mask of dust when scraping to shield yourself from fine sawdust.
Sash
Sash windows from the past are gorgeous and useful elements of your home, but when they become damaged, it can be difficult to know whether it is worth repairing or replacing them. A sash-window expert can help you decide on the best solution for your particular case.
Sash windows can be fixed with great success if you're willing to put in the time and effort required for the task. The key is to be equipped with the right tools, equipment and understanding of the procedure. This will allow you to make the most of your budget and bring your windows back to their previous glory.
The first step is to steam clean the sash, remove all the paint and scrape it back to the wood that is bare. It is recommended to use a tool like the Bahco tungsten carbide scraper which is comfortable to hold and comes with replaceable blades that can be used to penetrate the grooves of the wood without causing damage. Be sure to shield the area around it by covering the area with plastic sheets.
After the sash has been cleaned with steam, it should be dried thoroughly and the opening for the glass reglazed with new glazing compound. Use a high-quality, specially designed glazing compound. You can let the putty dry in a sunny and warm area if the weather allows.
When the sash is finished it is time to put it into the frame. It is essential to be careful to position each part so that it is secure and snugly. It is also crucial that the sash open and close smoothly.
Weather stripping can be used to fill any gaps between the sash frame and the sash. This will stop air from entering your home. This will also improve the efficiency of your property which will lower your heating costs.
It may be difficult to open your windows in the event that the sash cords or chains are damaged. It can be fixed by removing the sash cutting, affixing new cords, and then tying secure knots.
Glass
When the sash window glass is damaged, scratched, or broken, it may be removed from the frame and replaced. This involves taking the stops off and breaking the seal of paint. The sash is removed from the frame with a pry bar and a putty blade with an abrasive blade. The sash is pulled out and the window's bottom sill will be cut to allow access to the weight cavity.
Once the sash has been stripped, sanded and primed, it is ready to be installed. The sash then gets glazed and a new draught-proofing system is installed. This reduces the air flow through your window, increases thermal efficiency and eliminates rattles.
Water damage is a frequent problem with sash window frames. This is caused by moisture getting trapped behind the glass, and can cause the timber to expand and then become brittle. Water damaged sash window will also show signs rot. This is a serious issue that should not be overlooked.
To prevent this, we use a restorative chemical to clean the glass and remove any mineral deposits. The chemical must be left on the glass for at least 30 seconds in order to penetrate the surface and get rid of any staining.
Then, it's cleaned using a soft cloth to agitate the surface and remove any remaining dirt and residue. Once the primer has dried then we prime the area that will be painted again and apply two coats of gloss. The varnish acts as a strong barrier to prevent moisture from causing damage to the wood beneath and makes it easier to clean.
Restoration is an option, but it is costly and time-consuming. In most cases, replacing old sash windows with modern double-glazed windows is more cost effective and sustainable than restoring the existing ones. Additionally, they look stunning! If your old sash window is showing signs of wear, consider posting an advertisement on Airtasker to have them repaired or replaced.
Hardware
The hardware that runs a traditional sash windows can be damaged with the passage of time. Hardware that is older, such as chains, handles and cords wear out and leave gaps that can cause drafts and a higher cost for energy. The sash windows themselves may also experience misalignment issues over time and make them difficult to open and close. These issues can be fixed with a little bit of maintenance and the help of skilled experts.
An in-depth assessment is the first step in an sash-window restoration plan. This will determine the kind of repair work needed. This will allow the team to determine the best way to repair. Repairs can be cosmetic, dealing with damage to the paintwork or glass, or more structural, like fixing broken frames or rotted wood. The team will also inspect the operation of the window and look for draughts, rattles, and any other issues with the operation.
During the repair procedure, the team will carefully take apart the sash and frame to get access to the components without further damaging them. timber sash window will also cover windows with covers to protect them and remove any knockouts that are not required for the repair. Lead paint is commonly seen on older wood windows and requires specific handling techniques. These methods reduce the chance of dust spreading and guarantee the safety for the team.
Once the repairs are complete after which the sash is reassembled to check for any remaining issues. The sash is draught proofed and all mechanical parts are lubricated. This improves functionality and reduces the energy consumption. The sash is painted and primed to restore its appearance.
The process of restoring a sash could bring value to your home. However, it is essential to do the job right to ensure the windows will last. The team at ERW have years of experience working on properties of the past and in conservation areas, and are able to bring the charm of older windows back into life while meeting the latest energy efficiency standards. The team is committed to maintaining the integrity of historic windows with sash and their place in the history of architecture. They also seek to implement ecologically responsible and health-conscious practices throughout the construction process.