Sash Window Repair Sash windows add a classy style to any home. Nevertheless, they can be drafty and uncomfortable because of wear and age. Sash window repairs are a great way of improving functionality and maintaining the original beauty. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/birmingham-sash-window-repairs-near-me/ in repairing windows that have sash windows is to take off "pocket covers". These are bits of wood, low down on the frame, which allow access to the weights. Damaged sashes If your sash windows have been damaged or leaking air, you'll need to do more than just repair the surface. Doing a thorough repair can save you money in the long run, particularly in the case of an older home with poor insulation. Here are some of the most common issues that sash windows face and the way to fix them: Problems with Sticking If the sash doesn't fit well within the frame it may be difficult to open or close the window. This could cause a rattling sound and let drafts enter your home. To solve this issue, use an utility knife to cut and pry off the paint line from the inside side of your sash. Be careful not to damage the wood. You'll then need to apply a sash lubricant which will allow it to move along smoothly. Broken Sash Cords In certain instances, the old double-hung sashes are made of cotton or metal cords to support the weights used to raise and lower the sashes. As time passes, these cords can break, making it impossible to raise or keep the sash in place. Follow these steps to repair it: Remove the frame sash and pull it to the right until it is completely open. Cut the cord in the middle of the sash. Remove any nails sticking out from the end. Pull the nail free with needle-nose pliers and then insert it back into the side channel. The knot should be tucked into the cord into the hole and secure it with the nail set. Install the beads on the staff and then install the sash. Make sure to leave enough space on the cords to ensure that they are in good working order. Finally, reinstall the balances and counterweights. To lessen the chance of draughts, a small amount of decorators caulk can be applied between the staff bead and box. Glazing putty can be used to repair the sash after it has been repaired. Glazing putty can be made with linseed and chalk. Mix in enough of the chalk to make it workable, and not to stick to your hands. Allow the putty to dry completely before reinstalling the sash, or painting the frame. Broken sash cords To balance and support the sashes of old double-hung windows (two sashes) cotton cords or chains are affixed to counterweights. As time passes, the cords can break which prevents the sashes from opening or closing and makes it difficult to raise or lower the window. Replacing the sash's cords is an easy home repair that can fix these problems in less than an hour. Begin by removing your staff bead that separates the upper and lower sashes. You can take the bead off using needle-nose pliers. Typically, a nail is driven through the knot into the sash's casing to secure it. Remove any nail that is rusty from the stop beads and clean the caulk as well as the old cord residue and paint around the sash groove. To open the window, pull one of the cords running through the sash to raise it up. Once you've pulled it as far as it can go make a mark on the cord using a pencil and cut it to length using a knife. After you've finished, make sure that the new cord is aligned with the groove on the sash. Also, tie it to the sash using the knot. If the sash isn't moving, you can cut the cords using your side cutters. Once the sash has been removed, you'll have to take off the access panels in the sash channels in order to expose the counterweights and pulley system. If the window is painted you may have to cut the seams with a hammer and chisel to remove the access panel without damaging the paint. After removing the access panel, there are two cast-iron sashweights inside each pocket. Remove the one on the back and the other on the front, and then tie each sash cord to a weight with self-tightening knot. After you've tied the new cords, reconnect the sashweights, and then 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 problems can be caused by swollen or painted wood or sash cords that are rotten. There are several easy and cost-effective ways to fix these problems and keep your sash window operating effectively. Disassembling an old sash is a first step to repair it. Remove the sash as well as the frame and make sure all parts are in good shape. Next, sand down the wood to enhance its appearance and prevent drafts. A small amount of silicone spray or wax 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 can improve the window's performance. Weights are pushed across a system of pulleys to balance the weight of windows with sash. These weights are typically cast iron and are accessed from an access panel or pocket cover that is located in the inner box lining of the frame. To prevent the weights from crashing down, an dividing strip is hung within the frame to ensure they don't collide. Accessing these weights can be difficult as the upper sash has been painted shut and is nailed into place. If you're cautious and patient, you can remove the sash with a pair of bar clamps that have been sliced apart. It might take a some jiggling and tapping to get it out however once you have removed it, make sure to examine the sash cord and replace it with new rope (not cotton) if necessary. While you're at it you could also change the sash balance to make the window easier to open and close. It's not as difficult as you think to change the balance of a double-hung window. You can do it yourself if have the right tools and a replacement kit. Rotten sill Even the best-maintained windows can eventually begin to show signs of decay. If the rot is restricted to the sill, it could be possible to repair the window. If it has progressed through the frame into the interior of the house and has damaged structural members it's likely the right time to replace it. It is important to replace a damaged window sill before it causes more damage to the window. The first step is to take off the sill plates and studs. If the studs are load bearing they may require you to build temporary supports. After removing the old sill and washing off any paint remaining from the sill plate. Once the sill is clean then replace it with a new board and nail it to the studs. A rotten sill is not just unsightly but it could cause costly repairs in the near future. For instance, it could cause the sash to shift, which can be difficult to detect and could cause cracks or bowed glass pane. A rotten sill may also allow water to enter the wall and cause mold. Replacing a damaged or rotting sill is not as hard as it may sound. It is crucial to keep the window well-maintained to avoid rot, therefore you should clean regularly the window tracks and sashes in order to keep them free of dirt and debris. Also, you should apply a sealant that is protective to the frames of your windows to guard them from moisture. You can also utilize a humidifier to regulate the humidity in your home. This will prevent the wooden sashes from sticking or expanding. Sash windows are usually plagued by stuck sashes. This issue can be fixed by applying a small amount wax or silicone to the tracks of your windows. This will help them slide more easily. If the sashes are stuck because of paint buildup, you can make use of a utility knife cut through the layers of paint and release the sashes. Another way to solve a sticking sash is to put back in the parting bead. If the sash remains stuck you can try to draught proof it. This is done by placing a rubber strip between the frame and sash that reduces air flow and enhances the acoustic performance of the window.