Sash Window Repair

Sash windows add a classy aesthetic to a home. Nevertheless, they can be drafty and difficult to clean due to wear and age. Sash window repair is a great option to improve functionality while maintaining the original look of your windows.

The first step in sash window repair is to take off the "pocket covers". These are bits of wood, tucked away on the frame, which allow access to the weights.

Sashes that have been damaged

If your sash windows have been damaged or leaking air it is necessary to do more than patch up the surface. You can save money by completing a more thorough repair, particularly if your home is old and has poor insulation. Here are some typical problems with sash windows and the best way to fix them:

Sticking Issues

If the sash isn't fitted snugly within the frame, it will be difficult to open or close the window. This can result in rattling noises and let drafts into your house.

To fix this, use an utility knife to score and cut off the paint line on the interior side of your sash. Be careful not to harm the wood. Then, you'll need to apply a sash lubricant which will help it move easily.

Broken Sash Cords

Some old double glazed sash windows wood-hung sashes have metal or cotton cords supporting the weights used to raise and lower the sashes. As time passes, the cords may break and make it difficult to lift the sash up or keep it up. Follow these steps to fix it:

Then, pull the sash to the right and take it off the frame. Pull the cord from the bottom of the sash. Cut it and remove any nails protruding from the end. Utilizing needle-nosed pliers remove the nail and place it into the side channel. The knot of the cord should be tucked into the hole and secure it with an nail set.

Re-install the sash and install the staff beads. Be sure to leave enough slack in the cords to allow for optimal operation. Last but not least, put back the counterweights and balances. To minimize draughts small amount of decorators caulk can be placed between the bead of the staff and the box.

Once the sash and frame are fully repaired, bed them in glazing putty. Glazing putty is made by mixing chalk and linseed. Mix in enough chalk to make the putty workable and not stick to your fingers. Let the putty completely dry before installing the sash again and painting the frame.

Broken sash cords

Old double-hung (two sashes) windows use chains made of metal or cotton that are attached to counterweights to support and keep the sashes level within the window jamb. As time passes, the cords may break, preventing the sashes from opening or closing and makes it difficult to lower or raise the window. Replacing the sash's cords is a simple home fix that will solve the issue within less than a half 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 and into the casing of the sash to hold it in place. Remove any rusty nail from the stop beads, and then clean the caulk, old cord residue, and paint around the sash groove.

To open the window, pull one of the cords running through the sash and lift it up. When you've pulled the cord to the maximum extent it can go, mark the cord with a pencil and then cut it into length with a utility knife. After you've finished making sure that the new cord matches with the groove of the sash, and is secured to the sash frame by a knot.

If the sash still isn't moving, cut the cords using side cutters. Once the sash has been removed you'll need to take off the access panel in the sash channel to expose the pockets of sash weights, counterweights, as well as the pulley system. If the window is painted you may have to cut the seams with an axe and chisel to remove the access panel without damaging the paint.

After removing the access panel, you will see two sashweights made of cast iron in each pocket. Remove the one on the back and one on the front. Then, tie each sash cord to a weight by using a self-tightening knot. After you tie the new cords, it is necessary to connect the sash weights again and reset the pulley system to ensure it functions properly.

Drafts

Sash windows add a hint of history to older homes, however, they also pose issues with their maintenance. They can be difficult to open or close and rattle in the wind, and let drafts in. These problems are often caused by swollen wood paint buildup, sash cords that have rotted. There are several easy and cost-effective methods to fix these problems and keep your sash window working properly.

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

Weights are placed over pulleys in order to counterbalance the weight of a sash window. These weights, which are usually constructed of cast iron, can be accessed via an access panel or pocket on the inner box lining. A dividing strip is placed within the window frame to prevent the weights from colliding.

Accessing these weights can be difficult, since the upper sash is sealed and can be nailed in the correct position. If you are cautious and patient, you can take the sash off using a pair bar clamps that have been sliced apart. It might take a bit of tapping and jiggling to pull it out, but once you have it removed, make sure to inspect the sash cord and replace it with a new rope (not cotton) in the event that it is required.

You can also alter the balance of the sash to make it easier to open and shut the window. It's not as difficult as you think to change a double-hung window balance. You can do it yourself if you have the right tools and replacement kit.

Rotten sill

Over time, old timbers become damaged and even the best-maintained windows made of sash will begin to exhibit signs of rot. If the rot is only affecting the sill of the window, it might be possible to restore it. If, however, it has gotten into the frame to the interior of the house and has caused structural damage, it is probably the right time to replace it.

It is essential to replace a damaged window sill before it causes more damage to the window. The first step is removing the sill plates and studs. If the studs bear loads you may have to build temporary supports. After removing the old sill, clean off any paint remaining from the sill plate. After cleaning the sill then replace it with the new one and secure it to the studs.

A rotten sill is not just unsightly, it can cause costly repairs in the near future. For example, it can cause the sash's to shift, which can be difficult to detect and could lead to cracks or broken glass pane. A sill that is rotten may allow water to get into the wall and cause mold.

Replacing a rotten sill is not as hard as it might sound. It is essential to maintain the window to avoid rot, therefore you should clean regularly the window tracks and sashes in order to keep them free from dirt and other debris. Apply a sealant to the window frames to keep them dry. You can also apply humidifiers to manage the moisture in your home. This will stop wooden sash windows sashes sticking or swelling.

Sticking sashes are a common problem with sash windows. This issue can be fixed by applying a small amount of wax or silicone to the window tracks. This will make them slide easier. If the sashes are stuck due to paint buildup you can use an utility knife to cut through the paint layers and release the sashes.

Reinstalling the bead that is parting is another method to get rid of a stuck sash. If the sash remains stuck it is possible to try to draught proof it. This process involves placing an insulating strip of rubber in the gaps between the frame and sash that reduces air flow and enhances the acoustic quality of the window.