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Sash Window Repair Sash windows add a classy style to any home. However, they can also be problematic and drafty because of wear and age. Repairs to windows with sash can be a great option for improving functionality and maintaining the original elegance. The first step in repairing sash windows is to remove the “pocket covers”. These are small pieces of wood that are placed at the bottom of the frame and let the weights in. Damaged sashes If your sash windows have been damaged or leaky and water, you'll need to do more than just repair the surface. A more thorough repair job will save you money in the long run, especially in the case of an older home with poor insulation. Here are some typical issues with sash windows and the best way to fix it: Problems with Sticking If the sash doesn't fit tightly within the frame, it may be difficult to open or close the window. This could cause a rattling sound and let drafts in your home. To resolve this, use a utility knife to score the paint line on the interior side of the sash and pry it off. Be careful not damage the wood. Then, you'll need to apply a sash oil, which will help it move easily. Broken Sash Cords Some old double-hung sashes are made of metal or cotton supporting the weights used raise and lower the sashes. As time passes, these cords can break and make it difficult to lift the sash up or keep it up. To fix this, follow these steps: Move the sash right and then remove it from the frame. Pull the cord from the bottom of the sash, cut it, and then remove any nails protruding from the end. With needle-nosed pliers, remove the nail and insert it into the side channel. Incorporate the cord knot into the hole, and secure it using an nail set. Re-install the sash and install the staff beads. Be sure to leave plenty of for the cords to ensure the proper operation. Last but not least, put back the balances and counterweights. To minimize draughts small amount of decorators caulk can be placed between the bead of the staff and the box. After the frame and sash are fully repaired, bed them in glazing putty. Glazing putty can be made with linseed and chalk. Mix in enough of the chalk to allow it to work and not stick to your hands. Allow the putty to dry completely before reinstalling the sash or painting the frame. Broken sash cords Old double-hung (two sashes) windows are made of chains made of metal or cotton attached to the counterweights to help keep the sashes level in the window jamb. As time passes, the cords can break which prevents the sashes from opening and closing, making it difficult to raise or lower the window. The sash cords can be replaced in less than hour. Begin by removing your staff bead that separates the lower and upper sashes. You can take the bead off using needle-nose pliers. Normally, a nail is driven through the knot and into the casing of the sash to hold it in place. Remove any rusty nail from the stop beads and then clean the caulk and old cord residue and paint around the groove of the sash. To open window sash repairs , pull on one of the cords that runs through the sash to lift it up. Once you've pulled it to the maximum extent it can be, mark the cord with a pencil and cut it into length with an utility knife. Once you're done, make sure that the new cord is aligned with the groove of the sash. Also, tie it to the sash by knotting the knot. If the sash is still too high to move it, you can use sharp side cutters to cut off and remove the old cords. When the sash is completely free you'll need to take off the access panel within the sash channel to expose the sash weight pockets, the counterweights, as well as the pulley system. If the window has been painted, you will need to score the seams using the hammer or chisel to remove the panel without damaging it. After removing the access panel, there are two cast-iron sashweights inside each pocket. Remove the one on the back and one on the front, then tie each sash cord to a weight with a self-tightening knot. After you've tied the new cords, you'll need reconnect the sash weights and reset the pulley mechanism to ensure that it is working correctly. Drafts Sash windows add a bit of the past to older homes however, they also pose problems with maintenance. They can be difficult to open and close and can rattle in the wind, and let drafts in. These problems could be caused by painted or swollen wood or sash cords that are rotten. There are a number of simple and cost-effective solutions to address these issues and keep your sash window operating correctly. The first step to repair an old sash window is to take it apart it. Remove the sash, and frame, and check that all components are in good order. Sand the wood to make it appear better and prevent drafts. A small amount of silicone or wax spray can help the sash slide more easily. If the sash remains stuck, use an utility knife to cut off any paint layers. A new set of tilt pins can improve the window's performance. Weights are placed over pulleys in order to counterbalance the weight of windows with sash. The weights, typically made of cast iron can be accessed via an access panel or pocket on the inner box lining. To stop the weights from falling down, the dividing strip is suspended within the frame to ensure they do not collide. Accessing these weights can be tricky, as the upper sash has been painted shut and can be nailed in the position. If you're diligent and cautious, you can pull the sash out by using a pair of bar clamps that are spread apart. It may be necessary to jiggle and tap to loosen it, but once it's out you can inspect the sash and replace it if necessary with new rope. You can also alter the balance of the sash to make it easier to open and close the window. Replacing the balance of a double-hung window is much simpler than it seems and you can do it yourself with the right tools and a replacement kit. Rotten sill Eventually, old timbers will get worse and even the most well-maintained windows made of sash will begin to show signs of decay. If the rot is limited to the sill, it may be possible to restore the window. If it has progressed through the frame into the interior of the house and has damaged structural components, it is probably time for a replacement. It is crucial to replace a rotten window sill before it causes more damage to the window. The first step is removing the sill plates and studs. If the studs are load-bearing, you may need to build temporary supports. After taking off the sill, clean any paint left on the sill plate. When the sill is clean then replace it with a new board and attach it to the studs. A stained sill is not just ugly, it can cause costly repairs in the future. For example, it can cause the sash's to shift which is difficult to notice and can cause cracks or bowed glass pane. Additionally, a decayed sill could allow water to get into the wall, which could cause mold and other problems. It's not as difficult as it seems to replace a rotten sill. It is crucial to keep the window well-maintained to prevent rot, so you must regularly clean the window tracks and sashes in order to keep them clear of dirt and debris. Install a seal of protection on the frames of the windows to keep them dry. Lastly, you should use a dehumidifier in order to control the humidity levels within your home, which can prevent wooden sashes from expanding or sticking. Sash windows are often plagued by sashes that have become stuck. To fix them you can apply a small amount of silicone spray or wax onto the window tracks to enable them to slide easily. If the sashes have become stuck because of paint buildup, you can use a utility knife to cut the paint layers and free the sashes. Reinstalling the parting bead is another way to repair a sash that is stuck. If the sash is still sticking, you can also consider draught-proofing it. This is done by placing a piece of rubber between the frame and sash. This reduces airflow and improves the acoustic properties.