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Window Sash Repairs

Many homeowners don't care about window sashes -- insofar as they are closed, open, and keep the outside air out and the inside air in. But over time, they can start to wear out, causing air leaks, drafts, or even sticking sashes.

With a sash propped on a homemade easel, the author works glazing points into gaps. He also scrapes paint off the frame and applies a wood preserver.

Sash Weights

When windows aren't opening and closing in a smooth manner or are sticking, a faulty counter-balancing system could be at fault. This can occur because of a broken or damaged sash cord/chain, an unattached or misaligned sash weight, or a damaged pulley.

The sashweights are tiny boxes made of cast-iron, which balance the counter-weight system and help support the sash. They are located in the bottom rails of every window frame, covered by a wooden access panel that can be cut open to reveal their whereabouts. The panels can be removed to allow access to the sash-weight pockets to clean or repair them, or even replace them.

If you've had sash windows for some time, it's likely that you have a problem with sash weights, which cause them to lean or catch. This can be due to the weights being too heavy (they are supposed to be a bit heavier than the top sash) or due to them being installed incorrectly (some users have disabled their weight systems by cutting them off and removing the weights to save money or turn them in for scrap metal).

To correct this issue, first pry off the stops (the trim that runs along the inside edges of the window that joins the frame and keeps it in place) and then set them aside. You'll need to do this slowly so as not to damage the appearance of the overlapping rails. You can then use a hammer to separate the rails and stiles, and inspect them for damage.

After inspecting the stiles and rails of the sash, put some dust sheets on the floor and start working. Start by removing the wood pegs from the mortise and tenon joints with pin punches and a hammer or screwdriver. After you have removed the pegs you can start disassembling the sash. Remove the stop moldings for sash and any sash cords still in place.

The next step is to weigh the sash and case window repairs in order to figure out how much weight is required for the proper functioning. You can buy vintage replacement sashweights on the internet or at some home improvement stores. Make sure you get the correct size to avoid under or over-weighing the sash.

Sash Cords

Sash cords that are worn or broken can lead to problems with sash windows. Sash cords are under constant pressure from the weights, which can cause them to break over time, particularly when they're not maintained correctly. The sashes won't open or close as easily if the cords break. The problem could be caused by a number of things, including excessive force, aging, a lack of maintenance or accumulation of moisture. During window sash repairs, it's important to replace the old cords with new ones that are made from materials that last and resist moisture.

Begin by removing the inner stop strips, the thin wood strips which hold the sashes in the frame, using a utility blade and a the chisel. Remove the stops from the sashes carefully, and keep an eye out for any cracked or broken ones. After removing the stops you can get access to the sashweights by opening up the jamb or removing the weight pocket.

It requires a bit of effort to reach the sash cords but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it's not difficult. Remove the old cords first by cutting them at their knots, then pulling them out. Take the sash off and set it aside. Take off the staff bead. This is the nail that keeps the flush sash windows in place. Insert an approximately one foot into the hole. This will hold the sash on its place while you string counterweights.

Reattach the sash strings following reinstalling upper sash. Make sure that the sashes are moving smoothly and are balanced. Then, reinstall the lower sash, and repeat the process, checking that the sashes are sitting and moving smoothly.

Reattach the sash cable after you have installed the counterweights. Thread the cord through the pulleys, and then through the knot hole on the sash. Repeat this process on each side of the sash to ensure that the sashes function normally again.

Air leaks and drafts

Over time, the materials that secure your sash window the frame of your house begin to deteriorate. This can cause drafts and energy loss. A thorough inspection will reveal the problem areas and help you determine your window sash repairs options. Your personal preferences for comfort and your experience level determine whether you are able to manage window repair or require expert assistance. The scope of work is also influenced by the historic status of the property and its the structural integrity.

If cold air is getting through a drafty window or window, your furnace will need to work overtime to warm your home. This inefficiency can increase your heating costs and could affect the efficiency of your HVAC system. Drafts can also affect the quality of air inside and disrupt indoor comfort by adding allergens, pollutant and humidity from the outside.

A drafty window can be identified by the sensation of cold air entering the room, even if all doors and windows are shut. Other signs to look for are fluctuations in the temperature of your room close to the window and condensation around the frame or sill.

Repairing drafty windows is a a simple task, which can reduce your energy costs and increase comfort inside. The first step is to look at the window's exterior. Check for areas of bare wood or cracked caulking that exposes the window to cold air.

Examine the sash's interface with the frame, including the parting bead and staff bead. Examine the condition of the weather stripping (felt strips or foam tape) at these locations to determine if they are intact and functional. If not, it needs to be replaced.

Consider the condition of glazing putty. It's a hard putty that is used to hold panes of glass that has been tempered in place. Check for cracks or crumbling that expose the sash to moisture which can cause mold issues and damage to the glass of windows.

Apply a fresh layer of glazing putty to the inside of the window to correct the problem. To fix the secondary double glazing for sash windows points, employ a screwdriver with a flat blade to push them into the right position. Wrap a piece of fabric and foam around each point. This will act as an insulation against cold air.

Aesthetics

Window repair to sash can give older windows a new appearance for less than a full window replacement. A complete window replacement can be costly and time-consuming project, especially for older homes. Repairing window sashes is an excellent way to bring back the original beauty of a home and value.

Be vigilant about the condition of window sashes is crucial to avoid major problems. If you're unsure whether your windows require repair, it's recommended to have them evaluated by an expert. The cost of repairing a sash is often much lower than the expense to replace the whole window, and can save your home energy costs in the process.

The first step is to lower the upper sash towards the bottom - this is generally easy and will give you a clear view of the "parting beads" (these are the grooved bits in the meeting rail on either side that keep the 2 sliding sashes apart). Remove these with the blade of a small pry bar or a putty blade - they are usually nailed into place and glued with paint so you need to be careful not to damage them or the sash.

After you have removed the parting beads, you will need to remove the covers for your pockets. They are pieces of wood inside the frame, low down which allow access to the weights for the sash and are typically nailed in place - they may also be snagged with paint, so it is important be extra cautious. Once the nails are removed, you can move the sash upwards and downwards in order to make sure it moves easily.

If not it could be an issue with the counterweights or cords for sash. After you've inspected all of these, you can repair them as required.

Wooden windows are beautiful and natural that blends with both traditional and contemporary interiors. They can also be customized, with many paint and stain options. Wooden windows require regular maintenance in order to avoid rot and damage.