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Sash Window Repair Sash windows add a touch of elegance to any home. However, they can be problematic and drafty because of wear and age. Repairs to windows with sash are a great way of enhancing functionality while maintaining the original elegance. The first step in fixing windows that have sash windows is to take off “pocket covers”. These are bits of wood that are placed low on the frame that give access to the weights. Damaged sashes If your sash window has been damaged or leaking or leaking, you'll need to do more than just patch the surface. You will save money by completing a more thorough repair, especially if the home is old and has low insulation. Here are some typical problems with sash windows and the best way to fix them: Stuck Issues If the sash isn't fitted tightly within the frame, it's difficult to open or close the window. This can cause rattling sounds and let drafts in your home. To fix this, use an utility knife to cut and cut off the paint line from the interior side of your sash. Be careful not damage the wood. Then, you'll need to apply a sash grease which will help it move more smoothly. Broken Sash Cords Some old double-hung sashes have metal or cotton cords supporting the weights used to lift and lower the sashes. Over time, the cords can break, making it difficult to lift or hold the sash 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, cut it and remove any nails that are protruding from the end. Remove the nail using needle-nose pliers, and then insert it back into the side channel. The knot of the cord should be tucked into the hole and secure it with the nail set. Install the staff beads and put them back in the sash. Make sure you leave enough slack in the cords to allow for the proper operation. Then, you can reinstall the counterweights and balances. To lessen the chance of draughts, a small amount of decorators caulk could be applied between the staff bead and the box. Glazing putty is a great option to repair the sash once it has been repaired. Glazing putty is made using chalk and linseed. Mix in enough of the chalk to make it workable and not to stick to your hands. Let the putty completely dry before reinstalling the sash and painting the frame. Broken sash cords Old double-hung (two sashes) windows use chains made of metal or cotton connected to counterweights that support and keep the sashes level within the window jamb. Over time, the chains could break and block the sashes from opening or close. This makes it difficult to raise the window or lower it. Replacing the sash's cords is an easy home fix that will solve these problems within less than a half hour. Take off the staff bead, which is what separates the upper and lower sashes. A nail is typically driven through the knot and into the side of the sash casing to secure the bead in place, but you should be in a position to remove it with needle-nose pliers. Remove any rusty nail from the stop beads, and clean the caulk as well as the old cord residue and paint around the sash groove. To open the window, pull on one of the cords that run through the sash to lift it up. When you've pulled the cord as far as it will go make a mark on the cord using a pencil and then cut it to length using a knife. After you've finished, ensure that the new cord lines up with the groove of the sash, and is tied to the frame of the sash with a knot. If the sash still isn't moving you can cut the cords using side cutters. When the sash is completely free, you'll need to remove the access panel within the sash channel in order to expose the pockets of sash weights, counterweights, as well as the pulley system. If the window has been painted, you'll need to score the seams using either a hammer or chisel, to remove the panel without damaging it. After you've removed the access panel, you can see the two sash weights made of cast iron 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 tying the new cords, you'll need to connect the sash weights again and reset the pulley system to ensure it functions properly. Drafts Sash windows add a bit of the past to older homes however, they also pose maintenance challenges. They can be difficult to open or close, rattle in the wind, and let drafts in. These issues are often caused by swollen or painted wood or sash cords that are rotten. There are a variety of easy and cost-effective methods to correct these issues and keep your sash window working effectively. The first step to repair an old sash window is to take it apart it. Remove the sash as well as the frame and make sure all parts are in good working order. Sand the wood to make it appear better and prevent drafts. A small amount silicone spray or wax can make the sash slide more easily. If the sash is still stuck, use a utility knife to cut through any paint layers and free it. A new set of tilt-pins could enhance the window's performance. A sash window works by counterbalancing the weight of glass with the help of weights passed over a pulley mechanism. These weights, typically made of cast iron, can be accessed through an access panel or pocket in the inner lining of the box. A dividing strip is inserted inside the window frame to stop the weights from colliding. It isn't easy to get these weights out, because the sash on top can be sealed with paint and then put in place. If you are cautious and patient, you can take the sash off with a pair of bar clamps that have been sliced apart. It may be necessary to tap and jiggle to release it however, once it's gone, 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. It's much easier than you think to replace a double-hung window balance. You can do it yourself if have the right tools and replacement kit. Rotten sill Eventually, old timbers will get worse and even the most well-maintained sash windows will start to exhibit signs of rot. If the rot is only affecting the sill of the window, it may be possible to fix it. If it has gotten into the frame and into the interior of the home and has damaged structural components it's probably the time to replace it. It is crucial to replace a rotten window sill before it causes more damage to the window. The first step is to eliminate the sill plate that was previously installed and studs. If the studs are load-bearing, you may need to install temporary supports. After you have removed the sill, take off any paint left on the sill plate. When the sill is clean then replace it with a brand new board and nail it to the studs. sash window refurbishment that is rotten is not only unsightly but can also lead to expensive repairs in the near future. It can, for example cause the sash which is hard to spot to see, to move. This can result in a cracked, bowed or damaged glass pane. Additionally, a decayed sill could allow water get into the wall which could lead to mold and other problems. It's not as difficult as it seems to fix a damaged sill. It is vital to keep the window well-maintained to prevent rot, so you should clean regularly the window tracks and sashes to keep them clear of dirt and debris. Also, you should apply a sealant to the window frames to guard them from moisture. You can also utilize a humidifier to control the moisture in your home. This will stop wooden sashes sticking or swelling. Sticking sashes are a common issue for windows with sash. This issue can be fixed by applying a small amount wax or silicone to the window tracks. This will allow them to slide more easily. If the sashes have become stuck due to paint buildup you can use a utility knife to slice through the paint layers and free the sashes. Reinstalling the bead that is parting is another option to repair a sash that is stuck. If the sash remains stuck, you can try draught proofing it. This is done by placing an insulating strip of rubber in the gaps between the sash and frame which decreases airflow and improves the acoustic quality of your window.