Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can add a stylish aesthetic to a home. However, they can also be problematic and drafty due to wear and age. Repairs to sash windows are a great method of making them more functional and preserving the original appearance.

The first step in sash window repair is to take off the "pocket covers". These are pieces of wood, low down on the frame that give access to the weights.

Damaged sashes

If your windows' sash are damaged or leaking air and water, you'll need to go beyond repair the surface. You can save money by completing an extensive repair, especially if your home is older and has poor insulation. Here are some of the most common issues with sash windows and how to fix it:

Sticking Issues

It will be difficult to shut or open the window in the event that the sash does not fit snugly into the frame. This can result in rattling noises and allow drafts to enter your house.

To fix this, use an utility knife to cut and cut off the paint line on the interior side of your sash. Be careful not to scratch the wood. Then, you'll need to apply a sash lubricant which will allow it to move easily.

Broken Sash Cords

In some cases, old double-hung sashes are made of metal or cotton cords to support the weights used to lift and lower the sashes. Over time, these cords may break, making it difficult to lift the sash or keep it up. Follow these steps to fix it:

Remove the frame sash and pull it to the right until it's completely open. Pull the cord from the bottom of the sash, then cut it and take out any nails protruding from the end. With needle-nosed pliers, remove the nail and place it into the side channel. The knot of the cord should be tucked into the hole and secure it with an nail set.

Install the sash again and add the beads for staff. Be sure to leave plenty of slack on the cords to ensure that they are in good working order. Reinstall the balances and counterweights. Decorators caulk is a good way to reduce the amount of draughts. Apply small amounts of caulk between the bead boxes for staff.

Glazing putty is a great option to repair the sash once it has been repaired. Glazing putty is made of linseed oil and chalk. Mix in enough chalk to make the putty workable and not stick to your fingers. Let the putty dry completely before reinstalling the sash and painting the frame.

Broken sash cords

To balance and support the sashes in older double-hung windows (two sashes) cotton cords or chains are attached to the counterweights. Over time, the cords can break which prevents the sashes from opening or closing, making it difficult to lower or raise the window. The cords for sashes can be replaced in less than hours.

Take off the staff bead, which divides the upper and lower sashes. A nail is usually driven through the knot and then into the side of the sash casing to secure the bead in place, but you should be capable of removing it by using needle-nose pliers. Remove any rusty nails from the stop beads and scrub off caulk, paint, and old cord residue around the groove of the sash.

To open the window, pull one of the cords that run through the sash to lift it up. When you've pulled the cord to the maximum extent it can be then mark the cord with pencil, and then cut it to length using an utility knife. When you're done, make sure the new cord lines up with the groove in the sash, and is connected to the frame by knotting it.

If the sash window refurbishment isn't moving, cut the cords with your side cutters. Once the sash has been removed, you'll have to take off the access panels inside the sash style double glazed windows channels, exposing the pulley system and counterweights. 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.

After removing the access panel, you will find two cast-iron sashweights in each pocket. Remove the one on the back and the other on the front, then tie each sash cord to a weight with a self-tightening knot. After you have tied the new cords, you can reattach the sashweights and reset the system to work correctly.

Drafts

Sash windows add a touch of history to older homes, but 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 issues are often 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 working correctly.

Disassembling an old Sash Windows Repair is a first step to repairing it. Take off the sash and frame, and ensure that all components are in good working order. Sand the wood to make it look better and to prevent drafts. A small amount of wax or silicone spray can aid in allowing the sash to slide more easily. If the sash is still stuck using a utility knife, you can use it to cut off any paint layers. A new set of tilt pins can enhance the window's performance.

A sash window operates by counterbalancing the weight of the glass by using weights passed over a pulley mechanism. These weights are typically cast iron and are accessible via an access panel or pocket cover located inside the inner box lining of the frame. To prevent the weights from crashing down, an dividing strip is hung within the frame to ensure they do not collide.

The process of removing these weights can be difficult, since the upper sash has been painted shut and can be nailed in the correct position. If you are cautious and patient, you can pull the sash out with a pair of bar clamps spread apart. It may take a some jiggling and tapping to get it free but once you've got removed it, make sure to check the sash cord and replace it with a new rope (not cotton) in the event that it is required.

While you're at it you can also change the sash balance to make it easier to open and close. Replacing the balance of a double-hung sash is a lot easier than it is and you can do it yourself using the right tools and a replacement kit.

Rotten sill

In time, the old timbers will become damaged and even the best-maintained sash windows will start to exhibit signs of decay. If the rot is only affecting the sill of the window, it may be possible to restore it. If the rot has spread to the frame and even into the interior, and has damaged structural parts, it may be time to replace the window.

If you have a rotten sill, it is important to replace it before it causes damage to your window. The first step is to take off the old sill plates and studs. If the studs bear loads, you may need to build temporary supports. After removing the sill, clean off any paint remaining from the sill plate. When the sill is clean then replace it with a new board and attach it to the studs.

A sill that is rotten can look ugly and could lead to future costly repairs. For instance, it could cause the sash to move and can be difficult to spot and could result in cracks or broken glass pane. A sill that is rotten may allow water to enter the wall, causing mold.

Replacing a rotten sill isn't as difficult as it might sound. To stop rot, you must keep the window clean and free of dirt and debris. Apply a sealant to the frames of the windows to keep them dry. You can also use humidifiers to manage the humidity in your home. This will prevent wooden double glazed sash windows sashes from forming or swelling.

Sashes that stick are a common issue for windows with sash. To resolve them it is possible to apply small amounts of silicone spray or wax onto the window tracks to allow them to slide more easily. If the windows are stuck due to paint buildup, you could make use of a utility knife cut through the layers of paint and free the sashes.

Another method to fix a sticking sash is to reinstall the parting bead. If the sash remains stuck, you can try to draught proof it. This involves placing a strip of rubber between the sash frame and the sash. This will reduce airflow and improves acoustic qualities.