Mechanical
restoration of your window results in a window that exceeds the
window’s original ease of use and energy efficiency.
First, the window is disassembled allowing
access to all window components.
Sash cords are replaced with sash rope or
copper chain. Chain is historically correct as often seen in larger
buildings and churches. Chain is no noisier than rope and its
patina will darken and blend into the original woodwork within a few
months.
Pulleys are lubricated or, if broken,
replaced.
The sliding edges of the sash are scraped
of paint build-up and lubricated to provide ease of movement.
The parting bead (a small strip of wood
that separates the upper sash from the lower sash)
is removed. This strip may be replaced with stained or painted wood.
Locks are realigned for proper function
or, if broken or missing, replaced with the lock of your choice. When
correctly aligned, a lock will pull the meeting rails (middle) of the
top and bottom sashes together, while pushing the top up and the bottom
down.
Cracks in the woodwork or frame are
caulked or epoxied.
Spring Bronze weather-stipping is
installed on the frame of the window. These metal strips are
historically correct and offer the best energy efficient solution while
increasing the ease of use for wooden windows. The weatherstrip is
installed along the length of the sash area that meets the frame when
each sash is completely closed. When the window is closed the
weatherstrip is almost completely hidden. The weather-stipping
eliminates the side-to-side rattle of the windows thus providing a
smoother gliding surface as it operates.
Finally, after cosmetic
restoration of the sashes is complete, the window components are
re-assembled. The stops (vertical strips of wood trim that hold the
window in the frame) are re-aligned.
The result is a restored wooden window that
will last for generations to come with simple maintenance.
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