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Sash Window Repair Sash windows add a touch of class to any home. They can become drafty and difficult to repair as they age. Sash window repairs are a great way of enhancing functionality while maintaining the original appearance. The first step in fixing windows with sash is to remove “pocket covers”. These are tiny pieces of wood that sit in the lower part of the frame to let the weights in. Sashes damaged by abrasions If your sash windows have been damaged or leaky it is necessary to go beyond patch the surface. A more thorough repair job will save you money in the long run, especially when you live in an older house that has poor insulation. Here are some common problems with sash windows and how to fix them: Stuck Issues If the sash isn't fitted snugly within the frame, it's difficult to open or close the window. This can cause rattling noises and let drafts into your house. To resolve this solution, use a knife to score the paint line on the inner side of the sash and pry it off. Be careful not to scratch the wood. Then, you'll need to apply a sash oil, which will allow it to move easily. Broken Sash Cords Some old double-hung sashes are made of metal or cotton supporting the weights used raise and lower the sashes. As time passes, these cords could break and make it difficult to lift the sash and keep it up. To fix this issue, follow these steps: Remove the frame from the sash and pull it to the right until it is completely open. Pull the cord from the bottom of the sash. Cut it and remove any nails protruding from the end. With needle-nosed pliers, take out the nail and place it into the side channel. Insert the knot of the the hole and secure it with the nail set. Install the sash again and add the staff beads. Make sure you leave enough slack in the cords to allow for optimal operation. Then, you can reinstall the balances and counterweights. Decorators caulk is an excellent method to minimize the risk of draughts. Apply small amounts between the staff bead box. Glazing putty is a great option to repair the sash once it has been repaired. Glazing putty can be made using chalk and linseed. Mix in enough chalk to make it workable and not stick to your hands. Let the putty completely dry before applying the sash back and painting the frame. Broken sash cords To support and balance the sashes in older double-hung windows (two sashes), chains or cotton cords are affixed to counterweights. As time passes, the cords can break which prevents the sashes from opening and closing and makes it difficult to lower or raise the window. Replacing the sash's cords is a simple home fix that can solve these problems in a matter of less than an hour. Begin by removing the staff bead that separates the lower and upper sashes. A nail is typically driven through the knot and then into the sash's casing to keep the bead in place, however, you should be able to pull it free using needle-nose pliers. Remove any rusty nail from the stop beads and clean the caulk, old cord residue, and paint around the groove of the sash. To open the window, pull one of the cords running through the sash. Once you've gotten as far as you are able to make a mark on the cord in pencil and cut it out using a utility knife. Once you're done, make sure that the new cord is in alignment with the groove on the sash. Also, secure it to the sash by knotting a knot. If the sash still isn't moving you can cut the cords using your side cutters. Once the sash is free it is necessary to remove the access panel within the sash channel, which will expose the pockets for sash weights, the counterweights, and the pulley system. If the window has been painted, you'll have to cut the seams with the hammer or chisel to remove the panel without damaging it. After removing the access panel, you will see two cast-iron sashweights in each pocket. Remove the one on the back and the one on the front. Then, tie each sash cord to a weight with self-tightening knot. After tying the new cords, it is necessary to reconnect the sash weights and reset the pulley system to ensure it functions properly. Drafts Sash windows add a bit of the past to older homes but they also present issues with their maintenance. They can be difficult or impossible to close and open with a smooth, quiet operation. They can also be rattled by wind, and letting drafts in. These problems are often caused by swollen wood, paint buildup or the sash cords have begun to rot. There are a variety of easy and cost-effective solutions to address these issues and keep your sash window working correctly. The first step to repair an old sash window is to take it apart it. Remove the sash, and frame, and ensure that all parts are in good order. Sand down the wood to make it look better and stop drafts. A small amount of silicone or wax spray can help the sash slide 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 could also enhance the window's performance. Weights are passed over a system of pulleys to balance the weight of a sash window. These weights are typically cast iron and can be accessible via an access panel or pocket cover that is located within the lining of the box of the frame. To stop the weights from falling down, a dividing strip is suspended within the frame to ensure that they don't collide. It can be difficult to get these weights out, because the sash on top can be sprayed shut and put in place. If you're patient and careful you can pull the sash out using a pair bar clamps spread apart. It may take a bit of tapping and jiggling to get it free but once you've got removed it, make sure to check the sash cord and replace it with new rope (not cotton) if necessary. You can also alter the balance of the sash to make it easier to open and close the window. Replacing the balance of a double-hung sash is much simpler than it is and you can do it yourself using the proper tools and replacement kit. Rotten sill Even the best-maintained windows will eventually begin to show signs of rot. If the rot only affects the sill of the window, it could be possible to repair it. If the rot has gotten into the frame and even into the interior, and has damaged structural components it could be the time to replace the window. It is essential to replace a rotten window sill before it causes damage to the window. The first step is removing the old sill plates and studs. It is possible to put in temporary support if the studs are weight-bearing. After removing the sill, remove any paint left on the sill plate. After cleaning the sill, replace it with a new board and then nail it into the studs. A rotten sill may be unsightly and lead to costly repairs in the future. It could, for instance cause the sash which is hard to spot, to shift. This can result in cracks, bowed or damaged glass pane. sash windows upvc that is rotten may allow water to enter the wall and cause mold. It's not as difficult as it seems to repair a sill that is rotten. It is vital to keep the window well-maintained to avoid rot, therefore you must regularly clean the window tracks and sashes in order to keep them free of dirt and other debris. Install a seal of protection on the frames of your windows to keep them dry. Additionally, you should utilize a dehumidifier to regulate the moisture levels in your home. This can stop wooden sashes from swelling or sticking. Sash windows are often afflicted by stuck sashes. This issue can be fixed by applying a small amount of wax or silicone to the tracks of your windows. This will allow them to slide along more easily. If the sashes are stuck because of paint buildup, you can use a utility knife to cut through the paint layers and remove the sashes. Reinstalling the parting beads is another option to fix a stuck sash. If the sash still sticks, you can try making it draught-proof. This is done by placing strips of rubber between the frame and sash, which reduces airflow and improves the acoustic quality of your window.