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Sash Window Repair

Sash windows offer an elegant style to any home. Nevertheless, they can be drafty and difficult to clean due to wear and age. Sash window repairs are a great method of making them more functional and preserving the original appearance.

The first step to repairing windows that have sash windows is to take off "pocket covers". These are tiny pieces of wood that are located at the bottom of the frame and permit access to the weights.

Sashes that have been damaged

If your sash window is damaged or leaking it is necessary to do more than just patch the surface. You will save money by completing a more thorough repair, especially if your home is old and has poor insulation. Here are some typical sash window problems and how to fix them:

Sticking Issues

It can be difficult to close or open the window when the sash doesn't fit tightly into the frame. This could cause rattling sounds and allow drafts to enter your house.

To resolve this you can use a utility knife to score the paint line on the interior side of the sash, then take it off. Be careful not to harm the wood. Then, you'll need to apply a sash oil that will make it move more smoothly.

Broken Sash Cords

In certain instances, the old double-hung sashes are made of cords made of metal or cotton to support the weights that raise and lower the sashes. Over time, these cords can break, rendering it impossible to lift or hold the sash up. Follow these steps to fix it:

Move the sash right and then remove it from the frame. Pull the cord from the bottom of the sash, then cut it and take out any nails that are protruding from the end. Take the nail off using needle-nose pliers and then reinsert it into the side channel. The knot should be tucked into the cord into the hole and secure it with the nail set.

Re-install the sash and then install the beads for staff. Be sure to leave plenty of space on the cords to ensure proper operation. Finally, reinstall the counterweights and balances. To reduce draughts, a small amount of decorators caulk can be placed between the staff bead and the box sash windows.

When the frame and sash are completely repaired, you can bed them in glazing putty. Glazing putty is made with linseed and chalk. Mix with enough chalk to make the putty workable and not stick to your fingers. Let the putty completely dry before reinstalling sash or painting the frame.

Broken sash cords

Old double-hung (two sashes) windows are made of cotton cords or metal chains that are attached to counterweights to support and keep the sashes balanced in the window jamb. As time passes, the cords may break and prevent the sashes to open or close. This makes it difficult to raise the window or lower it. Replacing the sash window repairs near me cords is an easy home fix that can solve these issues in a matter of less than an hour.

Take off the staff bead, which is what separates the upper and lower sashes. You can take the bead off using needle-nose pliers. A nail is inserted through the knot into the sash's casing to hold it in place. Remove any nails that are rusty from the stop beads, and then clean off paint, caulk, and old cord residue around the sash groove.

To open the windows, pull one of the cords running through the sash. When you've made it the maximum distance you can make a mark on the cord in pencil and cut it using an utility knife. Once you're done, make sure that the new cord is in alignment with the groove on the sash. Also, tie it to the sash using the knot.

If the sash isn't moving you can cut the cords with your side cutters. Once the sash has been freed, you will need to remove the access panels inside the sash channels to expose the pulley system and counterweights. If the window has been painted, you will need to score the seams using the hammer or chisel to take off the panel without damaging it.

Once you've removed the access panel, you'll be able to see the two sash weights made of cast iron inside each pocket. Take the one on the back and the other on the front, then tie each sash cord to a weight with self-tightening knot. After you tie the new cords, it is necessary to reattach the sash weights and then reset the pulley system to ensure it functions properly.

Drafts

Sash windows are an excellent way to add a touch historical charm to older homes. However, they can be difficult to maintain. They can be difficult to open and close and rattle in the wind and let drafts in. These problems are usually caused by swelling of the wood paint buildup, sash cords that have rotted. There are a number of simple and cost-effective solutions to correct these issues and keep your sash window operating effectively.

Disassembling an old sash is the first step in fixing it. Remove the sash, and frame, and make sure that all components are in good shape. Then, sand the wood to enhance its appearance and to prevent drafts. A small amount silicone spray or wax can make the sash move more easily. If the sash still sticks using a utility knife, you can use it to cut any paint layers. A new set of tilt pins can make the window more efficient.

Weights are pushed across a system of pulleys to counterbalance the weight of the sash window. These weights, usually made of cast iron, are accessible via an access panel or pocket on the inner box lining. A dividing strip is placed inside the window frame to stop the weights from colliding.

It isn't easy to access these weights, since the sash's upper part can be sealed with paint and then put in place. However, if you are diligent and cautious, you can remove the sash using a pair of bar clamps, reversed so that they spread apart, to ease it out of the groove in the meeting rail. You may need to tap and jiggle to loosen it, but once it's out you can inspect the sash and replace it if necessary with new rope.

While you're at it you could also replace the sash balance to make the window easier to open and close. Replacing the balance of a double-hung sash is much simpler 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 exhibit signs of rot. If the rot only affects the sill of the window, it could be possible to restore it. If the rot has spread to the frame and even into the interior, and has damaged structural elements, it may be time to replace the window.

It is crucial to replace a rotten window sill before it causes more damage to the window. The first step is to eliminate the old sill plate as well as studs. If the studs bear loads, you may need to install temporary supports. After you have removed the sill, take off any remaining paint on the sill plate. After cleaning the sill then replace it with a new board and nail it into the studs.

A sill that is rotten is not just unsightly, it can also lead to expensive repairs in the future. For example, it can cause the bespoke sash windows to shift, which can be difficult to spot and could cause cracks or bowed glass pane. A rotten sill can let water in the wall, causing mold.

Replacing a sill that is rotten isn't as difficult as it sounds. It is essential to maintain your window to avoid rot, therefore you must regularly clean the windows' tracks and sashes to keep them free from dirt and other debris. Install a seal of protection on the frames of the windows to keep them dry. You can also apply a humidifier to regulate the moisture in your home. This will stop the wooden sashes from sticking or expanding.

Sash windows are often plagued by sashes that are stuck. To resolve them, you can apply small amounts of silicone spray or wax to the tracks of your windows to help them slide more easily. If the sashes have become stuck due to the buildup of paint, you can use a utility knife to slice through the paint layers and release the sashes.

Reinstalling the bead that is parting is another option to fix a stuck sash. If the timber sash window is still stuck it is possible to try making it draught-proof. This involves putting a strip of rubber between the frame of the sash and the sash. This will reduce airflow and enhances the acoustic quality.