Sash Window Repair

Sash windows add a touch of luxury to any house. Nevertheless, they can be drafty and uncomfortable due to age or wear. Sash window repairs can be a great option for improving functionality and maintaining the original appearance.

The first step to repairing windows with sash is to remove "pocket covers". These are pieces of wood that are placed low on the frame, which allow access to the weights.

Sashes that have been damaged

If your sash window is damaged or leaking it is necessary to do more that just patch the surface. You'll save money by doing a more thorough repair, particularly if your home is older and has low insulation. Here are some of the most common issues that sash windows face and the way to fix them:

Stuck Issues

If the sash does not fit well within the frame it may be difficult to open or close the window. This can cause rattling noises and let drafts in your home.

To solve this issue, use an utility knife to cut and then cut away the paint line from the inside side of your sash. Be careful not to harm the wood. After that, you'll need apply a sash oil that will allow it to move more smoothly.

Broken Sash Cords

Some old double-hung sashes have metal or cotton cords supporting the weights used lift and lower the sashes. As time passes, these cords could break and make it difficult to lift the sash up or keep it up. To fix this, follow these steps:

Remove the sash from the frame and pull it to the right until it is completely open. Pull the cord from the bottom of the sash. Cut it and take out any nails sticking out from the end. With needle-nosed pliers, remove the nail and insert it into the side channel. The knot of the cord should be tucked into the hole and secure it with a nail set.

Install the beads for staff and reinstall the sash. Make sure to leave enough slack on the cords to ensure proper operation. Finally, reinstall the counterweights and balances. Decorators caulk is a great method to minimize the risk of draughts. Apply a small amount between the bead box for staff.

When the frame and sash are completely repaired, you can bed them in glazing putty. Glazing putty is made from linseed oil and chalk. Mix with enough chalk to make the putty usable and not stick to your fingers. Let the putty dry completely before reinstalling the sash, or painting the frame.

Broken sash cords

Old double-hung (two sashes) windows utilize cords of cotton or chains of metal connected to counterweights to support and keep the sashes level in the window jamb. Over time, the cords might break, preventing the sashes from opening or close. This makes it difficult to raise the window or lower it. Replacing the sash cords is an easy home fix that will solve these issues in a matter of less than an hour.

Remove the staff bead that is what separates the upper and lower sashes. You can remove the bead by using needle-nose pliers. A nail is driven through the knot into the casing of the sash to secure it. Remove any nails that are rusty from the stop beads and clean off caulk, paint, and old cord traces around the sash groove.

To open the window pull one of the cords running through the sash. Once you've gotten the maximum distance you can mark the cord with a pencil and cut it using an ordinary knife. After you've finished, make sure that the new cord is aligned with the groove of the sash. Also, secure it to the sash with a knot.

If the sash still isn't moving, cut the cords using side cutters. After the sash is freed, you will have to remove the access panels in the sash channels, exposing the pulley system and counterweights. If the window is painted you may need to score the seams with an axe and chisel to remove the access panel without damaging the paint.

After removing the access panel you will find two cast-iron sashweights in each pocket. Remove the weights from the front and back and tie the sash cords onto the weights using a self tightening knot. After you have tied the new cords, reattach the sashweights and reset the system to work properly.

Drafts

Sash windows add a hint of historical charm to older homes, but they also pose problems with maintenance. They can be difficult to open and close, rattle in the wind and let drafts in. These issues are often caused by swollen or painted wood, or rotted sash cords. There are a number of simple and cost-effective methods to fix these problems and keep your sash window functioning effectively.

The first step in repairing an old sash window is disassembling it. Take off the sash and frame, and ensure that all components are in good working order. Sand down the wood to make it appear better and stop drafts. A small amount of wax or silicone spray can help the sash slide more easily. If the sash is still stuck to the wall, use a utility knife to cut off any paint layers. A new set of tilt pins could also enhance the window's functionality.

A sash window functions by compensating the weight of the glass by using weights that are passed through a pulley system. These weights are typically cast iron and can be reached via an access panel or pocket cover located in the inner box lining of the frame. To stop the weights from falling down, an dividing strip is hung within the frame to ensure they do not collide.

It isn't easy to get these weights out, since the sash's upper part can be sprayed shut and fixed with nails. However, if you're cautious and patient you can easily remove the sash by using bar clamps that are reversed and break apart, allowing it out of its groove in the rails that meet. It may take a few tapping and jiggling to pull it free, but once you have it removed, make sure to check the sash cord and replace it with new rope (not cotton) If you need to.

You can also alter the balance of the sash to make it easier to open and close the window. It's a lot easier than you imagine to replace the balance of a double-hung window. You can do it yourself if you have the right tools and replacement kit.

Rotten sill

Even the most well-maintained windows will eventually exhibit signs of rot. If the rot is only limited to the sill, it may be possible to repair the window. If the rot has spread through the frame and into the interior, and damaged structural elements it could be time to replace the window.

If you've got rotten sill, you must to replace it before it causes damage to your window. The first step is to take off the old sill plate as well as studs. If the studs bear loads they may require you to put in temporary supports. After removing the old sill, clean off any paint remaining from the sill plate. Once the sill is clean and dry, replace it with a new board and nail it to the studs.

A sill that is rotten can be unsightly and lead to costly repairs in the future. For instance, it could cause the sash to shift, which can be difficult to spot and could lead to cracks or broken glass pane. A rotten sill can let water in the wall and cause mold.

Replacing a damaged or rotting sill isn't as difficult as it sounds. It is vital to keep the window well-maintained to avoid rot, therefore you should regularly clean the window tracks and sashes to keep them free from dirt and other debris. Install a seal of protection on the window frames to keep them dry. Lastly, you should use a dehumidifier in order to control the humidity levels in your home, which can stop wooden sash windows near me sashes from swelling or sticking.

Sashes that stick are a common problem with sash windows. To resolve them you can apply a small amount of silicone spray or wax to the tracks of your windows to enable them to slide easily. If the windows are stuck due to paint buildup, you can employ a utility knife to cut through the layers of paint and free the sashes.

Another method to fix a sticking sash is to replace the parting bead. If the sash is stuck, you could try draught-proofing the sash. This involves placing a strip of rubber between the flush sash windows frame and the sash. This will reduce airflow and enhances the acoustic quality.