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Window Sash Repairs The majority of homeowners don't pay much attention to window sashes, so long as they are able to open and close and keep the air inside and the outside air out. Over time, window sashes can get worn out and cause drafts, air leaks or even sashes that are stuck. With a sash propped up on an easel made from wood, the author works glazing points into gaps. He also scrapes paint off the frame and then applies a wood preserver. Sash Weights If your windows aren't opening and closing smoothly, or are stuck the way they should, a defective counterbalancing system could be the cause. It could be caused by a damaged or missing sash chain, a misaligned or unattached sashweight, or a broken or cracked 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 every window frame and are covered with an access panel made of wood that can be cut open to reveal their location. The panels can also be removed to gain access to the weight pockets in the sash for cleaning, repairs or replacement. There could be an issue with the sashweights if you've had your sash windows long enough. They could be sagging or catch. This can be due to the weights being too heavy (they are supposed to be a little heavier than the top sash) or due to them being installed in a way that isn't correct (some people disabled their weight systems by cutting them off and removing the weights to save money or turning them into scrap metal). To address this issue, first pry off the stops (the trim along the inner edges of the window where it joins the frame and keeps it in place) and then set them aside. This requires you to be gentle in order to not damage the shape of your meeting rails. You can then use a hammer for separating the stiles and rails and then inspect them for damage. After examining the stiles and rails of the sash, place some dust sheets on the floor and start working. Start by removing wood pegs using a pin-punch and a hammer or screwdriver from the mortise-and-tenon joints. After you have removed the pegs you can begin disassembling the sash. Remove the stop moldings for sash and any sash cords still connected. Next you will want to weigh the sash and determine how much weight is required for its proper functioning. You can find old weights for sash replacement online or in some home improvement stores, but be sure to purchase the correct size so as not to overload or underweight the sash. Sash Cords The majority of sash window problems result from damaged or worn sash cords. The weights put constant pressure on the sash's cords and this can cause them break over time. The sashes won't open or close as easily when the cords break. The issue could be caused by excessive force, ageing or lack of maintenance or the buildup of moisture. It is crucial to replace the old cords during window sash repair by new cords made of a material that is strong and resistant to moisture. Begin by removing the interior stops, the thin strips of wood that keep the sashes together using a utility knife and a Chisel. Take care to remove the stops of the sashes, while keeping an eye out for any that are cracked or broken. After removing the stops, you can get access to the weights on the sash by opening the jamb or removing the weight pocket. Accessing the sash's cords requires a little more work but it's not a problem with the right tools and patience. First, you must remove the old cords by cutting them near their knots and then pulling them out. Remove the sash and place it aside. Remove the staff bead, which is the nail that holds the sash in position. Put the nail about a foot in length into the hole. This will hold the sash in place while you finish stringing counterweights. After reinstalling the upper sash and sash cords, reconnect them and ensure that the sashes are properly balanced and move smoothly. Install the lower sash and repeat the process. Check that the sashes have been properly set and are moving smoothly. Reattach the sash cables once you have installed the counterweights. Thread the cord through the pulleys and then through the knot hole on the sash. Repeat the process for each side of the sash until the cords are replaced and the sashes are operating normal. www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk and Air Leaks Over time, the materials that connect your sash window to the frame of your home deteriorate. This causes drafts and energy losses. A thorough inspection can identify problem areas and guide the repair options for your window sash. Your preferences regarding comfort and experience level determine whether you can self-manage window repair or require expert assistance. The scope of work required is also influenced by the history of the property's condition and the structural integrity. If cold air is getting in through a drafty door or window, the furnace will have to work harder to heat your home. This inefficiency increases your heating bills, and can compromise the efficiency of your HVAC system. In addition, drafts affect your indoor comfort and reduce the quality of your indoor air by bringing in outdoor pollutants, allergens and humidity. A typical indication of a drafty window is the feeling of cold air circulating through your home regardless of windows and doors being closed. Other indicators to look out for are a change in temperature near the window, and condensation on the sill or frame. It is good to know that fixing drafty windows is a simple job that can lower your energy costs and enhance the comfort of your home. First, inspect the exterior of the window. Check for areas of bare wood or cracked caulking, which exposes the window to cold air. Examine the sash's interface with the frame. This includes the parting bead and the staff bead. Examine the condition of weather stripping on these points (felt strips or tape) to determine if they are intact and functional. If not, this needs to be replaced. Take a look at the condition of the glazing putty. It's a hard putty used to hold panes of glass tempered in place. Look for cracks and crumbling that can expose the sash's surface moisture. This could lead to mold issues and damage to the glass. To fix the issue, apply a bed of fresh glazing putty on the inside of your window. To fix the glazing points, make use of a flat-bladed screwdriver push them into the right position. Then wrap a piece of foam and a piece of fabric around each point to form an insulation lawyer against cold air. Aesthetics Window repair to sash can give old windows a fresh new look at a lower cost than an entire window replacement. A complete window replacement could be an expensive and time-consuming task, especially for older homes. Repairing window sashes can be an excellent method to restore the beauty of your home and value. It is essential to be aware of the condition and wear of window sashes in order to avoid any major issues. If you're not sure whether your windows are in need of repair It's a good idea to have them inspected by an expert. The cost of a sash repair is usually cheaper than the cost to replace the whole window, and could save your home energy costs as well. First, lower the upper sash down to the bottom. This is typically simple and allows you to see the “parting beads”, which are a grooved part on the meeting rails that keep the two sliding sashes separate. They can be removed using the help of the small pry-bar or putty knife. They are typically put in place with nails and then painted, so you need to be careful not damage them or the sliding sash. After removing the parting beads you'll have to remove the pocket covers. These are tiny pieces of wood that are screwed into the frame at the bottom. They allow access to the sashweights. Once they are removed, the sash may be moved up and down to ensure that it moves in a smooth manner. If it's not, there may be problems with the counterweights or sash cords. After you've inspected all of these, you can repair them as needed. Wooden windows are beautiful and natural that blends seamlessly with modern and traditional style interiors. They are also highly customizable with a variety of paint and stain options. However, wooden windows require regular maintenance to avoid damage and decay.