FAQ

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows add a touch of elegance to any home. They can become drafty and troublesome as they age. Sash window repair is a great option to improve the functionality of your windows while keeping the original look of your windows.

The first step in repairing sash windows is to remove the "pocket covers". These are bits of wood that are placed low on the frame that give access to the weights.

Sashes damaged by abrasions

If your sash window has been damaged or leaks, you will need to do more than patch 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 common problems with sash windows and how to repair them:

Sticking Issues

It will be difficult to shut or open the window in the event that the sash does not fit properly into the frame. This can cause rattling sounds and let drafts in your home.

To fix this, use an utility knife to cut and then cut away the paint line from the interior side of your sash. Be careful not to scratch the wood. Then, you'll want to apply a sash grease that will help it move more smoothly.

Broken Sash Cords

In some cases, old double-hung sashes utilize cotton or metal cords to support the weights that lift and lower the sashes. Over time, these cords may break, making it difficult to lift the sash or keep it up. Follow these steps to fix it:

Remove the sash from the frame and pull it to the right until it's completely open. Pull the cord from the bottom of the sash, then cut it, and then remove any nails sticking out from the end. Remove the nail using needle-nose pliers, and then reinsert it into the side channel. Insert the knot of the cord into the hole and secure it using a nail set.

Install the sash again and add the staff beads. Make sure to leave enough for the cords to ensure that they are in good working order. Then, you can reinstall the counterweights and balances. Decorators caulk is an excellent method to minimize the amount of draughts. Apply small amounts of caulk between the staff bead box.

Glazing putty is a great option to fix the sash after it has been repaired. secondary glazing sash window putty is usually made of 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 or painting the frame.

Broken sash cords

Old double-hung (two sashes) windows use cords of cotton or chains of metal that are attached to counterweights that support and keep the sashes level within the window jamb. Over time, the cords could break, which stops the sashes from opening and closing and makes it difficult to raise or lower the window. The cords for sashes can be replaced in less than a few hours.

Remove the staff bead which separates the upper from lower sashes. A nail is typically driven through the knot and into the side of the sash casing to keep the bead in place however, you should be in a position to remove it with needle-nose pliers. Remove any nails that are rusty from the stop beads and clean off caulk, paint, and old cord residue around the sash groove.

To open the window pull one of the cords running through the sash. When you've pulled it as far as it can go make a mark on the cord using a pencil and cut it into length with a knife. When you're done, be sure that the new cord is aligned with the groove of the timber sash window. Also, secure it to the sash by knotting a knot.

If the sash remains too high to move then you can use your sharp side cutters to cut off and remove the old cords. Once the sash Windows Repair is free you'll need to take off the access panel in the sash channel to expose the sash weight pockets, the counterweights, and the pulley system. If the window has been painted, you will have to cut the seams using the hammer or chisel to remove the panel without damaging it.

After you have removed the access panel you will see two cast-iron sashweights inside each pocket. Remove the weights from the front and back and tie the sash cords to the weights using a self tightening knot. After you tie the new cords, you'll need reattach the sash weights and reset the pulley mechanism to ensure it functions properly.

Drafts

Sash windows add a bit of the past to older homes however, they also pose maintenance challenges. They are often difficult or impossible to shut and open, rattling in the winds, and letting drafts in. These issues are usually caused by swollen wood, paint buildup or the sash cords have begun to rot. There are a number of simple and cost-effective methods to address these issues and keep your sash window working effectively.

Disassembling an old sash is a first step to repair it. Take off the sash and frame, and make sure that all components are in good condition. Next, sand down the wood to improve its appearance and to prevent drafts. A small amount of silicone or wax can make the sash move more easily. If the sash remains stuck to the wall, use a utility knife to cut off any paint layers. A new set of tilt-pins can enhance the window's performance.

A sash window functions by compensating the weight of the glass using weights passed over a pulley system. The weights are typically cast iron and can be accessed from an access panel or pocket cover that is located within the lining of the box of the frame. A dividing strip is put within the window frame to stop the weights from colliding.

It can be difficult to access these weights, since the sash's upper part can be painted shut and fixed with nails. If you're cautious and patient, you can pull the sash out by using a pair of bar clamps that are spread apart. You may need to tap and jiggle it to free it but once it's free, inspect the sash and replace it with new rope.

While you're at it, you could also replace the sash balance to make the window easier to open and close. Replacing the balance of a double glazed sash window-hung sash windows refurbishment is much simpler than it seems and you can do it yourself with the right tools and a replacement kit.

Rotten sill

Over time, old timbers deteriorate and even the best-maintained windows made of sash will begin to exhibit signs of decay. If the rot is limited to the sill, it might be possible to repair the window. If the rot has spread through the frame and into the interior, and damaged structural parts it could be time to replace the window.

If you have a rotten sill, it's important to replace it before it causes further damage to your window. The first step is removing the old sill plates and studs. It is possible to put in temporary support if the studs are weight-bearing. After removing the sill, remove any remaining paint on the sill plate. After cleaning the sill, replace it with the new one and then nail it into the studs.

A rotten sill may be ugly and cause future expensive repairs. For instance, it could cause the sash to shift and can be difficult to detect and could lead to cracks or broken glass pane. A rotten sill can allow water to get into the wall, causing mold.

Replacing a damaged or rotting sill isn't as difficult as it may sound. It is vital to keep the window well-maintained to avoid rot, therefore you should clean regularly the window tracks and sashes to keep them free of dirt and debris. Apply a protective seal on the frames of your windows to keep them dry. You can also apply a humidifier to control the moisture in your home. This will stop wooden sash window sashes from forming or swelling.

Sticking sashes are a common issue with windows made of sash. To get them out of the way, you can apply small amounts of silicone spray or wax to the tracks of your windows to allow them to slide more easily. If the sashes are stuck because of paint buildup, you could make use of a utility knife cut through the layers of paint and release the sashes.

Reinstalling the parting bead is another option to repair a sash that is stuck. If the sash still sticks, you can try draught proofing it. This involves putting a strip of rubber between the frame of the sash and the sash. This helps to reduce airflow and improves the acoustic properties.