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Sash Window Repair Sash windows can add a stylish style to any home. They can become drafty and problematic as they age. Sash window repair is a great way to improve functionality while maintaining the original look of your windows. The first step in repairing sash windows is to take off the “pocket covers”. These are bits of wood, low down on the frame that give access to the weights. Sashes that have been damaged If your sash window has been damaged or leaking or leaking, you'll need to do more that just patch the surface. You can save money by performing an extensive repair, especially if your home is old and has low insulation. Here are some common problems with sash windows and the best way to repair them: Sticking Issues It can be difficult to shut or open the window in the event that the sash does not fit tightly into the frame. This can result in rattling noises and allow drafts to enter your house. To resolve this you can use a utility knife to cut the paint line on the inside side of the sash. Then take it off. Be replacing window sashes Repair My Windows And Doors not damage the wood. Then, you'll need to apply a sash oil, that will help it move easily. Broken Sash Cords Some double-hung sashes from the past are made of metal or cotton that support the weights used to raise and lower the sashes. As time passes, these cords can break, rendering it impossible to raise or keep the sash in place. To fix this, follow these steps: Remove the frame sash and pull it to the right until it's completely open. Cut the cord on the bottom of the sash, and then remove any nails sticking out 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 with an nail set. Re-install the sash and then install the staff beads. Be sure to leave plenty of slack on the cords to ensure proper operation. Reinstall the balances and counterweights. Decorators caulk is a good way to reduce draughts. Apply a small amount between the bead boxes for staff. Glazing putty can be used to repair the sash once it has been repaired. Glazing putty is made using chalk and linseed. Mix in enough of the chalk to allow it to work and not stick to your hands. Let the putty completely dry before applying the sash back and painting the frame. Broken sash cords Old double-hung (two sashes) windows use cords of cotton or chains of metal attached to the counterweights to support and keep the sashes balanced in the window jamb. As time passes, the cords might break, preventing the sashes from opening and close. This makes it difficult to raise the window or lower it. The cords of the sash can be replaced in less than an hours. Remove the staff bead that separates the upper from lower sashes. A nail is usually driven through the knot and into the sash's casing to keep the bead, but you should be in a position to remove it using needle-nose pliers. Remove any nail that is rusty from the stop beads, and clean the caulk, old cord residue, and paint around the groove of the sash. To open the window, pull on one of the cords that runs through the sash to lift it up. When you've made it the maximum distance you can, mark the cord in pencil and cut it out using a utility knife. When you finish making sure that the new cord lines up with the groove in the sash and is secured to the sash frame by knotting it. If the sash remains too high to move then you can use your sharp side cutters to cut and eliminate the old cords. Once the sash has been removed it is necessary to remove the access panel in the sash channel, which will expose the pockets of sash weights, counterweights, and the pulley system. If the window has been painted, you will have to cut the seams with the hammer or chisel to take off the panel without damaging it. Once you've removed the access panel, you can see the two sash weights made of cast iron in each pocket. Take the one on the back and one on the front. Then, tie each sash cord to a weight with self-tightening knot. After you tie 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 hint of historical charm to older homes, however, they also pose maintenance challenges. They can be difficult to open and close and rattle in the wind, and let drafts in. These issues are usually caused by swelling of the wood or paint buildup, or the sash cords have begun to rot. There are many easy and cost-effective ways to address these issues and keep your sash windows functioning effectively. The first step in fixing an old sash window is disassembling it. Take off the sash and frame, and make sure whether all parts are in good shape. Sand the wood to make it appear better and to prevent drafts. A small amount silicone spray or wax can help the sash slide more easily. If the sash is still stuck, use a utility knife to cut through any paint layers to release it. Adding a new set of tilt pins can also help improve the window's operation. Weights are placed over a pulley system to counterbalance the weight of windows with sash. The weights, typically made of cast iron, can be accessed through an access panel or pocket within the lining of the box. To stop the weights from crashing down, a dividing strip is suspended within the frame to ensure that they don't collide. Accessing these weights can be difficult, since the upper sash has been painted shut and can be secured by nailing it in the correct position. If you are cautious and patient, you can pull the sash out by using a pair of bar clamps that are spread apart. It might take a few jiggling and tapping to get it out however once you have it out, be sure to examine the sash cord and replace it with new rope (not cotton) If you need to. You can also change the balance of the sash to make it easier to open and shut the window. Replacing the balance of a double-hung window is much easier than it is and you can do it yourself with the appropriate tools and a replacement kit. Rotten sill In time, the old timbers will deteriorate and even the best-maintained sash windows will start to show signs of rot. If the rot is only affecting the sill of the window, it could be possible to restore it. If the rot has spread through the frame and even into the interior, and damaged structural parts, it may be time to replace the window. If you've got rotten sill, it's important to replace it before it causes damage to your window. The first step is to eliminate the sill plate that was previously installed and studs. If the studs are load bearing you may have to install temporary supports. After removing the old sill and cleaning any remaining paint from the sill plate. After cleaning the sill, replace it with a new board and secure it to the studs. A rotten sill is not only unsightly, it can also lead to expensive repairs in the future. It can, for example cause the sash which is difficult to notice, to shift. This could lead to cracks, bows or damaged glass pane. A rotten sill can allow water to get into the wall and cause mold. It's not as difficult as it seems to replace a rotten sill. To stop rot, you must keep the window clean and free of debris and dirt. It is also recommended to apply a sealant to the window frames to protect them from moisture. You can also apply a humidifier to control the humidity in your home. This will prevent wooden sashes sticking or swelling. Sticking sashes are a common issue with windows made of sash. To get them out of the way, you can apply a small amount of wax or silicone spray to the window tracks to allow them to slide more easily. If the windows are stuck due to the buildup of paint, you can use a utility knife to cut through the layers of paint and release the sashes. Reinstalling the parting beads is another method to get rid of a stuck sash. If the sash is sticking, you can also try draught-proofing the sash. This involves placing a strip of rubber between the sash frame and sash. This helps to reduce airflow and enhances the acoustic quality.