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Window Sash Repairs Most homeowners don't think much about window sashes — insofar as they can be closed and opened, they keep outside air out and the interior air in. However, over time, they'll start to wear out, causing air leaks, drafts, or even sashes that stick. The author uses a sash that is propped up on an easel for working glazing points into the gap. He also scrapes paint off and applies an oil-based preservative to the frame. Sash Weights If your windows aren't opening and closing smoothly or are sticking the way they should, a malfunctioning counter-balancing system could be at fault. This can occur due to a damaged or damaged sash chain or cord or an unattached or misaligned sash weight, or a damaged pulley. The sashweights are small, rounded boxes made of cast-iron that balance the counter-weight system and help support the sash. They are situated in the bottom rails of each window frame and are covered with an access panel made of wood which can be opened to reveal their position. These panels can be removed for access to the sash weight pockets to clean, repair or replace them. You may have an issue with the sashweights, if you've had your windows with sash windows for long enough. Our Site may be sagging or catch. The weights may be too heavy (they should be slightly heavier than top sash), or installed in a way that isn't correct. To fix this problem to fix this issue, take off the stops (the trim that runs along the inside edge of the window at the point where it joins the frame to keep it in position). Place them aside. You'll need to do this with care so as not to damage the shape of the two rails. You can then use a hammer for separating the rails and stiles, and then inspect them for damage. After examining the rails and stiles of the sash, place some dust sheets on the floor and start working. Start by taking the wood pegs out of the mortise and the tenon joints using pin punches and a screwdriver or hammer. After the pegs have been removed then you can begin to disassemble the sash by taking out the stop moldings for sash, pulling off any sash cord knots in place, and finally, removing the sash itself. The next step is to weigh the sash to determine the amount of weight it will require for functioning. You can find old replacement sash weights online or at a few home improvement stores, but ensure that you purchase the correct size so as not to overload or underweight the sash. Sash Cords Sash cords that are worn or damaged can cause problems with sash windows. Sash cords endure constant pressure from the weights, which can cause them to break over time, especially when they're not maintained correctly. If the cords break, sashes will no longer open and close easily. The problem may be caused by excessive force, ageing or lack of maintenance or moisture buildup. It's important that you replace the old cords during window sash repairs with new ones made from a material that is durable and resistant to moisture. Begin by removing the internal stops and the thin pieces of wood that keep the sashes together with a utility knife and a the chisel. Pry the stops from the sashes with care and be on the lookout for any cracked or broken ones. After removing the stops, you can gain access to the weights on the sash by opening the jamb or taking out the weight pocket. Accessing the sash's cords requires some effort, but it's not difficult with the right tools and patience. First, you must remove the old cords by cutting them near their knots and pulling them free. Then, you can remove the sash from the frame and set it aside. Remove the staff bead. This is the nail that keeps the sash in position. Put an approximately one foot length into the hole. This will stop the sash from falling while you finish stringing the counterweights. After installing the upper sash again then reattach the sash cords and make sure the sashes are in a balanced position and move smoothly. Then, you can reinstall the lower sash and repeat the process, ensuring that the sashes are properly seated and moving smoothly. After you've finished installing counterweights, connect the sash cords by placing the sash cord through the pulleys and threading the other end of the cord through a knot hole inside the sash to secure it into place. Repeat this process for each side of the sash until all cords are replaced and the sashes are operating normal. Air and Drafts Leaks As time passes, the materials that seal sash windows to your frame begin to degrade, resulting in drafts and energy loss. A thorough inspection can identify problem areas and guide the repair options for your window sash. Your comfort level and level will determine if are able to manage your own repairs or require professional assistance with window repair. Historical property status and structural integrity concerns also affect the scope of work necessary. If cold air is leaking through a drafty window or window, your furnace will have to work harder to heat your home. This can result in higher heating bills, and can affect the efficiency of your HVAC system. In addition, drafts affect your indoor comfort and can degrade indoor air quality by forcing in outdoor pollutant, allergens, and humidity. A drafty window can be identified by the sensation of cold air coming into an area, even though all doors and windows are closed. Other tell-tale signs include a fluctuation in the temperature of your home near the window, and condensation on the frame or sill. It is good to know that fixing drafty windows is a simple task that can reduce your energy bills and improve the comfort of your home. The first step is to examine the exterior of the window. Check for areas of bare caulking that is cracked or wood, which exposes the window to cold air. Examine the sash's interface with the frame including the parting bead and staff bead. Check the condition of the weather stripping (felt strips or foam tape) at these points to determine if they are intact and effective. If not, it's time to be replaced. Finally, consider the state of glazing putty, which is a tough putty that keeps panes of glass in place. Examine for cracks and crumbling that could expose the sash's exterior to moisture. This can cause mold issues and damage to the glass. To fix the problem, apply a layer of fresh glazing putty to the inside of your window. To fix the glazing points, employ a screwdriver with a flat blade to push them into the right position. Then wrap a piece of foam and fabric around each point to form an insulation layer against cold air. Aesthetics Window repair for sash windows can give older windows a fresh look at a lower cost than a complete replacement. Especially for homeowners with older homes, a full replacement can be a large project, and a substantial financial commitment. Often, repairing window sashes can bring back the original beauty of a home and increase its value as well. Be vigilant about the condition of window sashes is essential to avoid major issues. If you're unsure whether your windows require repair it's recommended to have them evaluated by a professional. The cost of repairing a sash is usually cheaper than the cost to replace the whole window, and can save you money on energy bills as well. The first step is to lower the upper sash towards the bottom. This is usually simple and will give you an excellent view of the “parting beads” (these are grooved pieces in the meeting rail on either side that keep the 2 sliding sashes from colliding). Remove these with the blade of a small bar or a putty knife – they are normally nailed in the right place and are covered with paint, so you have to be careful not to scratch them or the sash. Once you've removed the parting beads, the next step is to take off the pocket covers. These are small pieces of wood which are fixed into the frame at the bottom. They permit access to the sashweights. After the nails are removed, you can move the sash up and down to ensure it moves smoothly. If it doesn't, it could be a problem with the counterweights or sash cords. After you've inspected them all, you can fix them if necessary. Wooden windows are beautiful and natural. They work well with both traditional or contemporary interiors. They are also highly customizable with a variety of stain and paint options. However, wooden windows do require regular maintenance to avoid damage and rot.