Sash Window Repair

Sash windows add a touch of luxury to any house. However, they can be drafty and uncomfortable due to age or wear. Sash window repair is a great option to increase the functionality and maintain the original appeal of your windows.

The first step in repairing sash windows is to remove "pocket covers". These are tiny pieces of wood that are placed in the lower part of the frame to allow access to the weights.

Sashes that have been damaged

If your sash window has been damaged or leaks, you will need to do more than just patch the surface. You will save money by performing a more thorough repair, especially if the home is older and has poor insulation. Here are some common problems with sash windows and how to fix them:

Sticking Issues

If the sash doesn't fit snugly within the frame, it may be difficult to open or close the window. This can cause rattling noises and allow drafts to enter your home.

To resolve this you can use a utility knife to score the paint line on the inner side of the sash. Then pry it off. Be careful not to damage the wood. You'll then need to apply a sash oil, that will help it move along smoothly.

Broken Sash Cords

In some instances, older double-hung sashes are made of metal or cotton cords to support the weights that raise and lower the sashes. Over time, these cords may break, making it impossible to lift or keep the sash up. To fix this issue, follow these steps:

Remove the frame from the sash window refurbishment 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, take out the nail and then insert 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 beads for staff and install the sash. Be sure to leave slack in the cords to allow for proper operation. Last but not least, put back the counterweights and balances. To reduce draughts, a small amount of decorators caulk can be applied between the staff bead and box.

Glazing putty is a great option to fix the sash after it has been repaired. Glazing putty is usually made from linseed oil as well as chalk. Mix in enough of the chalk to allow it to work and not to stick to your hands. Let the putty completely dry before reinstalling sash or painting the frame.

Broken sash cords

Old double glazed timber sash windows-hung (two sashes) windows are made of cotton cords or metal chains attached to the counterweights that support and keep the sashes balanced within the window jamb. As time passes, the chains may break, preventing the sashes from opening and closing, making it difficult to lower or raise the window. Replacing the sash cords is a simple home repair that can fix these issues in less than an hour.

Take off the staff bead, which divides the upper and lower sashes. You can remove the bead using needle-nose pliers. Typically, a nail is driven through the knot and into the sash's casing to secure it. Remove any rusty nails from the stop beads, and then clean off any paint, caulk and old cord residue that has accumulated around the groove in the sash.

To open the windows, pull one of the cords that run through the sash. When you've pulled the cord as far as it can be then mark the cord with pencil, and then cut it to length using an utility knife. When you finish, make sure the new cord lines up with the groove in the sash and is connected to the frame with a knot.

If the Sash Windows Repair 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 freed, you will have to take off the access panels in the sash channels in order to expose the pulley system and counterweights. If the window has been painted, you'll have to cut the seams using either a hammer or chisel, to take off the panel without damaging it.

Once you've removed the access panel, you'll see the two cast-iron sash weights inside each pocket. Remove the one on the back and one on the front, and then tie each sash cord to a weight using self-tightening knot. After you've tied the new cords, you'll need connect the sash weights again and reset the pulley system so that it works correctly.

Drafts

Sash windows add a bit of the past to older homes but they also pose maintenance challenges. They can be difficult to open and close, 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 variety of easy and cost-effective ways to fix these issues and keep your windows operating properly.

Disassembling an old sash is the first step in fixing it. Remove the sash, and frame, and ensure that all parts are in good order. Sand the wood to make it appear better and stop drafts. A small amount of silicone or wax can make the sash move more easily. If the sash remains stuck, use an utility knife to cut off any paint layers. The addition of a new set tilt pins can also improve the window's operation.

Weights are pushed across pulleys in order to balance the weight of the sash window. These weights, usually made of cast iron can be accessed via an access panel or pocket located on the inner box lining. A dividing strip is put inside the window frame to stop the weights from colliding.

It isn't easy to reach these weights because the sash on top can be sprayed shut and fixed with nails. However, if you're cautious and patient you can take off the sash using bar clamps, reversed to spread apart, to ease it out of its groove in the meeting rail. It might take a few jiggling and tapping to get it out however once you have it removed, make sure to inspect the sash cord and replace it with a new rope (not cotton) If you need to.

While you're at the same time, you can also change the sash balance to make the window easier to open and close. Replacing a double-hung sash window balance is much simpler than it seems and you can do it yourself using the proper tools and replacement kit.

Rotten sill

Over time, old timbers deteriorate and even the best-maintained windows made of sash will begin to show signs of rot. If the rot only affects the sill of the window, it could be possible to fix it. If, however, it has gotten into the frame to the interior of the home and has damaged structural components it's probably the time to replace it.

It is important to replace a damaged window sill before it causes further damage to the window. The first step is to remove the sill plates and studs. You may have to install temporary support when the studs are weighing. After removing the old sill and cleaning any remaining paint from the sill plate. After the sill has been cleaned and dry, replace it with a brand new board and nail it to the studs.

A sill that is rotten is not just unsightly but it could cause costly repairs in the future. It can, for example cause the sash that is hard to see to notice, to shift. This could lead to cracks, bowed or damaged glass pane. Additionally, a rotten sill could allow water to be able to enter the wall, which could lead to mold and other issues.

Replacing a rotten sill isn't as difficult as it sounds. To avoid rot, keep the window clean and free of debris and dirt. Apply a protective seal on the frames of your windows to keep them dry. Additionally, you should utilize a dehumidifier to control humidity levels in your home, which can stop wooden sash windows near me sashes from swelling or sticking.

Sticky sashes are a frequent issue with windows made of sash. To resolve them it is possible to apply a small amount of silicone spray or wax to the tracks of your windows 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 release the sashes.

Another option to resolve a stuck sash is to put back in the parting bead. If the sash is still stuck, you can try to draught proof it. This is done by placing a piece of rubber between the sash frame and sash. This will reduce airflow and enhances the acoustic quality.