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Window Sash Repairs Most homeowners don't think much about window sashes — as long as they open, close, and keep the outside air out and the interior air in. As time passes window sashes may become worn out and lead to air leaks, drafts or even sashes that are stuck. With a sash propped up on an easel made from wood and a glass, the artist creates glazing points into a gap. He also scrapes off paint and applies an oil-based preservative to the frame. Sash Weights If your windows aren't closing and opening smoothly, or are stuck, a faulty counterbalancing system could be the reason. This can occur due to a missing or damaged sash chain or cord or an unattached or misaligned sash weight, or a damaged pulley. The sash weights are tiny boxes, usually constructed of cast iron that help support the sash and also help balance the counter-weight system of the window. They are situated in the bottom rails of every window frame, covered by a wooden access panel which can be opened to reveal their whereabouts. The panels can be removed for access to the weight pockets in the sash to clean, repair or replacement. If you've used sash windows for a period of time, it's likely that you have a problem with the sash weights that cause them to sag or catch. The weights can be too heavy (they should be a little heavier than the top sash) or installed incorrectly. To address this issue, first pry off the stops (the trim that runs along the inside edges of the window where it meets the frame and keeps it in the frame) and set them aside. It is important to do this slowly so as to not damage the shape of the two rails. You can then employ a mallet or hammer to break up the stiles from the rails and inspect them for damage or for any repairs that need to be done. After examining the rails and stiles of the sash, place some dust sheets on the floor and begin working. Start by removing wood pegs using a pin punch and a screwdriver or hammer from the mortise-and tenon joints. After removing the pegs you can begin disassembling the sash. Remove the sash stop moldings and any sash cords still in place. The next step is to weigh the sash in order to determine the amount of weight it will require for functioning. You can find old replacement sash weights online or in some home improvement stores, but be sure to purchase the right size to ensure not to over or under weight the sash. Sash Cords Sash cords that are worn or broken can lead to problems with the sash window. The weights exert constant pressure on the sash cords, and this could cause them to break over time. The sashes will not open or close as easily if the cords break. The problem may be caused by excessive force, ageing or lack of maintenance or the accumulation of moisture. In the case of window sash repairs it is essential to replace the old cords with new ones made of materials that last and resist moisture. Begin by removing the interior stops, the thin pieces of wood that hold the sashes together with a utility knife and a the chisel. Pry the stops from the sashes carefully, and keep an eye out for any cracked or broken ones. Once upvc sliding sash windows are removed, you can access the sash weights through an access panel that is cut into the frame's bottom, or by opening the jamb and removing the cover that covers the weight pocket. Accessing the sash cords requires some effort however it's not too difficult with the right tools and patience. First, remove the old cords by cutting them near their knots, and then pulling them away. Then, take the sash from the frame and set it aside. Remove the staff bead, which is the nail that keeps the sash in its place. Put the nail about a foot in length into the hole. This will temporarily keep the sash from falling while you finish stringing the counterweights. Reattach the sash string after reinstalling upper sash. Check that the sashes move in a smooth manner and are balanced. Then, you can reinstall the lower sash, and repeat the process, ensuring that the sashes are correctly in place and are moving smoothly. After you've finished installing counterweights, connect the sash cords, by inserting a sash cord through the pulleys and then threading the other end of the cord through a knot hole in the sash, ensuring it is secured in the correct position. Repeat this procedure for each side of the sash until all cords are replaced and the sashes are operating normally again. Drafts and Air Leaks Over time, the materials that seal sash windows to your frame begin to degrade creating drafts and loss of energy. A thorough inspection can reveal problems and help you choose your window sash repair options. Your comfort level and skill level will determine if you are able to self-manage or need professional assistance with window repair. The status of the property in the past and structural integrity concerns also influence the scope of work necessary. If cold air is leaking in through a drafty door or window, your furnace will need to work harder to warm your home. This inefficiency eats into your heating bills and compromises the efficiency of your HVAC system. Drafts can also impact the quality of air inside and cause discomfort in the home by bringing in allergens, pollutants and humidity from the outside. A drafty window can be identified by the sensation of cold air rushing into the room, even if all doors and windows are shut. Other telltale signs are a change in temperature near the window, as well as condensation on the frame or sill. Fortunately, fixing drafty windows is a simple task that can reduce your energy bills and improve indoor comfort. The first step is to look at the window's exterior. Check for wood that isn't bare and areas where the old caulking is cracked, opening the gap to cold air. Examine the interface of the sash with the frame. This includes the parting bead and the staff bead. Examine the condition of weather stripping at these points (felt strips or tape) to determine if they are intact and working. If not, it's going to need to be replaced. Then, think about the condition of glazing putty. It is a hard putty that holds panes glass in place. Check for cracks or crumbling that expose the sash to moisture, which could cause mold issues and damage to the windows' glass. Apply a fresh layer of glazing putty on the inside of the window to fix the issue. Using a flat-blade screwdriver, push the glazing points into position to secure them. Then, wrap a piece of foam and fabric around each point to form an insulation lawyer against cold air. Aesthetics Window sash repairs can give old windows a fresh new look for less money than a complete window replacement. A complete window replacement could be costly and time-consuming task, especially for older homes. Repairing window sashes can be an excellent way to bring back the beauty of your home and value. It is important to pay attention to the condition and wear of window sashes in order to avoid major issues. It is recommended to speak with an expert if uncertain about whether your windows require repair. The cost of repairing a sash is often much less than the cost to replace the whole window, and can save your home energy costs in the process. First, lower the upper sash to the bottom. This is generally simple and will allow you to observe the “parting beads” that are a grooved part on the rails at the junction that keep the two sliding sashes separate. Remove these with the blade of a small bar or a putty knife – they are usually nailed into place and stuck with paint so you need be cautious not to scratch them or the sash. After you've removed the parting beads, the next task is to take off the pocket covers. These are tiny pieces of wood which are fixed into the frame at the bottom. They allow access to the sashweights. After the nails have been removed, you can move the sash upwards and downwards in order to make sure it moves smoothly. If it doesn't, there may be a problem with the counterweights, or the sash cords. After you've checked them all, you can fix them if you need to. Wooden windows are beautiful and natural. They blend in well with contemporary or traditional interiors. The staining and painting options are endless. However, wooden windows do require regular maintenance to avoid damage and decay.