What Else is There to Know
Well, quite a lot actually. Although none of it is particular difficult. This was a very common and simple repair and although I kept true to what was required for a decent outcome I did cut a few corners.
- I only tackled the front lower window. your double hung windows are designed to work in tandem. Hence the word Double in double hung. The top/back window opens from the top down, the bottom/front window open from the bottom up. This will create a draft where inside hot air leaves from the top opening and cooler outside air comes inside. Its a beautiful thing when it works. Essentially you need to duplicate exactly the same tasks with the back/top window as with the front/bottom window. You’ll need to remove a rectangular piece of wood called a Parting Bead on both side of the window to get to the back window. Like the removing the Stop – be careful in both removing and preserving the Parting Bead.
- I didn’t spend any time discussing window weather stripping – there are some very snazzy options in this area particularly at the meeting rails and on the bottom of the windows – check out some of the old school Vchannel bronze weather-stripping. Cool stuff.
- we didn’t discuss in any way what to do if your window frame is broken or falling apart – some of this is easy to repair – other situations made need an expert
- if you have a broken window pane – you’ don’t have to take anything apart but you’ll get to learn about glazing – which is another simple and satisfying job
- we didn’t discuss, sash locks or sash pulls and I have plenty of opinions on this topics – perhaps for another blog.
- no discussion of casement windows – which have a more straight forward design but less homeowner fixit up capability in my experience.
- I’ve provided only the view from my old Queen Anne Style 1870’s house – there are many many variations on every aspect of this that will be different in your home.
- and i haven’t provided any online resources – no surprise – there are plenty that I am sure i used at one point – but can’t recall any specific sites – i have no preferences on this topic – this search seems to give some decent results:google search of “fixing double hung window sash cord”
And of course I am no expert. I’m just fixing up my house window by window as required. My advice is to set aside a weekend, assemble some tools, and give it a whirl.
And keep the cats out of the room.
Good luck!
p.s. first time using google blogger – worked like a charm!