Sash Window Repair Sash windows can add a stylish aesthetic to a home. However, they can also be problematic and drafty because of wear and age. Repairs to sash windows are a great method of making them more functional and preserving the original appearance. The first step in repairing sash windows is to remove the "pocket covers". These are bits of wood, tucked away on the frame, that allow access to the weights. Sashes damaged by abrasions If your sash window has been damaged or leaks it is necessary to do more than patch the surface. Doing a thorough repair can save you money in the long run, particularly when you live in an older home that is not well-insulated. Here are some common problems with sash windows and the best way to fix it: Stuck Issues It will be difficult to close or open the window if the sash does not fit properly into the frame. This can cause rattling noises and let drafts in your home. To fix this issue, use a utility knife to cut the paint line on the interior side of the sash and remove it. Be careful not to scratch the wood. You'll then need to apply a sash lubricant which will allow it to move easily. Broken Sash Cords Some double-hung sashes from the past have cotton or metal cords supporting the weights used to raise and lower the sashes. Over time, these cords may break, making it difficult to lift or keep the sash up. Follow these steps to fix it: 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 take out any nails protruding from the end. Remove the nail using needle-nose pliers, then reinsert it into the side channel. Tuck the cord knot into the hole, and secure it using the nail set. Install the beads for staff and put them back in the sash. Be sure to leave plenty of space on the cords to ensure that they are in good working order. Then, you can reinstall the balances and counterweights. Decorators caulk is a good way to prevent the risk of draughts. Apply a small amount between the staff bead box. Once the sash and frame are completely repaired, you can bed them in glazing putty. Glazing putty is usually made from linseed oil and chalk. Mix in enough of the chalk to make it workable, and not to stick to your hands. Let the putty dry completely before reinstalling the sash and painting the frame. Broken sash cords Old double-hung (two sashes) windows are made of cords of cotton or chains of metal attached to the counterweights that support and keep the sashes balanced within the window jamb. Over https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/harrow-sash-window-repairs-near-me/ , the chains might break, preventing the sashes from opening and close. This makes it difficult to raise the window or lower it. Repairing the sash cords is a simple home repair that can fix these problems in a matter of less than an hour. Remove the staff bead that is what separates the upper and lower sashes. A nail is usually driven through the knot, and then into the sash's casing to secure the bead in place however, you should be able to pull it free by using needle-nose pliers. Remove any rusty nails from the stop beads and scrub off any paint, caulk and old cord traces around the groove of the sash. To open the window, pull one of the cords running through the sash. When you've pulled the cord to the maximum extent it can go, mark the cord with pencil, and then cut it to length using a knife. After you've finished, make sure that the new cord is in alignment with the groove of the sash. Also, tie it to the sash using a knot. If the sash still isn't moving you can cut the cords using your side cutters. Once the sash has been removed, you'll need to remove the access panels inside the sash channels, exposing the pulley system and counterweights. If the window is painted, you might need to score the seams with an axe and chisel to remove the access panel without damaging the paint. Once you've removed the access panel, you can see the two cast-iron sash weights in each pocket. Remove the weights on the front and back and connect the sash cords to the weights using a self-tightening knot. After tying the new cords, you'll need reconnect the sash weights and reset the pulley system to ensure it functions properly. Drafts Sash windows add a hint of the past to older homes but they also present problems with maintenance. They can be difficult to open or close, rattle in the wind and let drafts in. These issues could be caused by swollen or painted wood, or rotted sash cords. There are a number of simple and cost-effective ways to address these issues and keep your sash window functioning properly. The first step in fixing an old sash window is to take it apart it. Remove the sash and the frame, and ensure that all parts are in good shape. Sand down the wood to make it look better and to prevent drafts. A small amount of silicone or wax can help the sash glide more easily. If the sash is sticking, use a utility knife to cut through any paint layers to release it. A new set of tilt pins can also help improve the window's performance. A sash window operates by compensating the weight of the glass by using weights that are passed through a pulley mechanism. These weights, usually made of cast iron, can be accessed via an access panel or pocket on the inner box lining. To prevent the weights from crashing down, an dividing strip is hung within the frame to ensure that they do not collide. It can be difficult to reach these weights since the sash's upper part can be sprayed shut and put in place. If you're cautious and patient, you can remove the sash with a pair of bar clamps spread apart. It may take a some jiggling and tapping to get it out but once you've got removed it, make sure to examine the sash cord and replace it with a new rope (not cotton) if necessary. While you're at the same time, you can also change the sash balance to make the window easier to open and close. It's a lot easier than you imagine to replace the double-hung balance on a window. You can do it yourself if have the right tools and replacement kit. Rotten sill Even the most well-maintained windows will eventually begin to show signs of rot. If the rot is only limited to the sill, it could be possible to fix the window. If the rot has spread through the frame and even into the interior and has damaged structural parts, it may be time to replace the window. It is essential 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. If the studs bear loads you may have to build temporary supports. After removing the sill and cleaning any remaining paint from the sill plate. After cleaning the sill, replace it with the new board and secure it to the studs. A rotten sill may be unsightly and lead to costly repairs in the future. For example, it can cause the sash's to shift and can be difficult to detect and could lead to a cracked or bowed glass pane. Additionally, a decayed sill could allow water to get into the wall which could lead to mold and other issues. Replacing a sill that is rotten isn't as difficult as it might sound. To prevent rot you must keep the window free of debris and dirt. Install a seal of protection on the window frames to keep them dry. You can also use a humidifier to regulate the humidity in your home. This will prevent the wooden sashes from sticking or expanding. Sash windows are often plagued by sashes that have become stuck. To fix them you can apply small amounts of wax or silicone spray onto the window tracks to allow them to slide more easily. If the windows are stuck due to paint buildup, you could employ a utility knife to cut through the layers of paint and free the sashes. Reinstalling the bead that is parting is another way to repair a sash that is stuck. If the sash remains stuck, you can try to draught proof it. This process involves placing an insulating strip of rubber between the sash and frame which decreases airflow and improves the acoustic quality of your window.