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Window Sash Repairs The majority of homeowners don't think too much about window sashes as long as they are closed, open, and keep outside air out and the interior air in. But with time, they can start to wear out, leading to drafts, air leaks or even sticking sashes. The author makes use of an sash placed on an easel for working glazing points into the gap. He also scrapes paint off the frame and applies a wood preserver. Sash Weights If your windows aren't closing and opening smoothly or are sluggish in a stuck position, a malfunctioning counterbalancing system could be at fault. This can occur because of a broken or damaged sash cord/chain or an unattached or misaligned sash weight, or a broken pulley. The sash weights are small boxes constructed of cast iron that support the sash and balance the window's counter-weight system. The sash weights are located at the bottom of every window frame. They are covered by an unfinished wooden panel that can be removed to reveal their location. These panels can be removed to allow access to the sash weight pockets to clean, repair or replace them. If you've had sash windows for some time, it's likely that you have a problem with the sash weights that cause them to sag or catch. The weights may be too heavy (they should be slightly heavier than top sash) or they've been installed incorrectly. To fix this issue, first take off the stops (the trim that runs along the inside edges of the window that joins the frame and keeps it in place) and then set them aside. This will require you to be careful so as to not damage the shape of your meeting rails. You can then use a hammer for separating the rails and stiles, and inspect them for damage. After examining the stiles and rails of the sash dust sheets on the floor and begin working. Begin by removing the wood pegs from the mortise and tenon joints with pin punches and a screwdriver or hammer. Once the pegs are removed then you can begin disassembling the sash by removing the stop moldings for sash as well as removing the sash cord knots that are connected, and then taking the sash off itself. The next step is to weigh the sash in order to determine the amount of weight is required for its proper functioning. You can find vintage replacement sashweights online or at some home improvement stores. Make sure you get the correct size to avoid under or over-weighing the sash. Sash Cords Often sash window problems stem from worn or broken sash cords. Sash cords are constantly under pressure from the weights which could cause them to break over time, particularly when they're not maintained properly. The sashes won't be able to open or close as easily if cords break. The issue could be caused by a variety of things that can cause it, such as excessive force, aging, lack of maintenance or accumulation of moisture. When you repair windows it is essential to replace the old cords with new ones constructed from materials that last and resist moisture. Begin by removing the interior stops and the thin pieces of wood that keep the sashes in place, using a knife or a the chisel. Pry the stops off the sashes carefully, and keep an eye out for any broken or cracked ones. After the stops have been removed, you will be able to access the sash weights via an access panel cut into frame's bottom, or by opening the jamb, and then removing the cover for the weight pocket. It requires a bit of work to reach the sash cords, but with the right tools and a bit of patience it is not difficult. Take the old cords out first by cutting them at their knots, then pulling them out. Take the sash off and set it aside. Pull down the staff bead, which is the nail that holds the sash in place. Put a nail of about a foot in length into the hole. This will hold the sash in place as you string counterweights. Reattach the sash strings after installing the upper sash. Make sure that the sashes move smoothly and are balanced. Then, reinstall the lower sash and repeat the process, making sure that the sashes are correctly sitting and moving smoothly. Reattach the sash cables after you have put in the counterweights. Thread the cord through the pulleys and then through the knot hole on the sash. Repeat this procedure for each side of the sash until all the cords are replaced and the sashes are operating normally. sash secondary glazing and Drafts Leaks Over time, the materials that seal sash windows to your frame begin to degrade creating drafts and energy loss. A thorough inspection can reveal problems and help you choose the repair options for your window sash. Your comfort level and level will determine whether you are able to self-manage or require assistance from a professional for window sash repair. Historical property status and structural integrity concerns also influence the scope of work that is required. If cold air is able to enter through a drafty window your furnace is forced to be working overtime to keep your house warm. This can result in higher heating expenses, and can compromise the efficiency of your HVAC system. Drafts can also reduce indoor air quality and cause discomfort in the home by bringing in allergens, pollutants and humidity from the outside. A drafty window can be identified by the feeling of cold air coming into a room, even when all windows and doors are shut. Other indicators to look out for include a fluctuation in the temperature of your home near the window and condensation on the frame or sill. Repairing drafty windows is a an easy task, and will reduce your energy bills and increase comfort inside. First, inspect the outside of the window. Look for bare wood and areas where the caulking is cracked, opening the gap to cold air. Examine the sash's interface with the frame including the parting bead and staff bead. Examine the condition of the weather stripping (felt strips or foam tape) at these points to determine if it's intact and effective. If not, it needs to be replaced. Finally, consider the state of glazing putty, a hard putty that holds panes of glass in place. Examine for cracks or crumbling that expose the sash to moisture, which could cause mold issues and even damage the windows' glass. Apply a new layer of glazing putty on the outside of the window to correct the issue. Using a flat-blade screwdriver, push the glazing points into place to hold them. Wrap a fabric or piece and foam around each point. This will act as an insulation against cold air. Aesthetics Window sash repair can give older windows a new look at a lower cost than a complete replacement. A complete window replacement could be an expensive and time-consuming task, especially for older homes. Repairing window sashes can be an excellent way to bring back the original beauty of a home and value. Be vigilant about the condition of windows sashes is important to prevent major issues. It's best to consult a professional if you are unsure if your windows need repair. A sash repair is less expensive than replacing the entire window and can also save you money on energy costs. The first step is to lower the upper sash down to the bottom. This is usually easy and allows you to observe the “parting beads”, which are grooved bits on the rails at the junction that keep the two sliding sashes apart. Remove these with the blade of a small bar or a putty knife – they are typically nailed in place and glued by paint, so you need be careful not to scratch them or the sash. After you've removed the parting beads, the next step is to take off the covers for your pockets. They are tiny pieces of wood which are fixed into the frame at the bottom. They permit access to the sashweights. After the nails have been removed then you can move the sash upwards and downwards in order to make sure it moves easily. If not then there may be a problem with the counterweights or the sash cords. After you've checked all these, you can fix them as needed. Wooden windows are beautiful and natural that blends with both traditional and contemporary interiors. They are also highly customizable, with many paint and stain options. However, wooden windows require regular maintenance to prevent damage and decay.