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Window Sash Repairs Many homeowners don't pay much attention to window sashes as long as they're capable of being opened and closed and keep the air inside and the outside air out. Over time window sashes may get worn out and cause drafts, air leaks, or even sashes to become stuck. The author uses an sash supported on an easel to work glazing points into the gap. He also scrapes paint off the frame and applies a wood preserver. Sash Weights If your windows are not opening and closing with ease, or are stuck the way they should, a defective counterbalancing system could be the cause. This can occur due to a missing or damaged sash chain or cord, an unattached or misaligned sash weight, or a broken pulley. The sashweights are small, rounded boxes made of cast-iron, which balance the counter-weight system and support the sash. The sash weights are situated at the bottom rails of every window frame. They are covered by a wooden panel that can be removed to reveal their location. These panels can be removed for access to the pockets of sash weights to clean, repair or replacement. You may have an issue with the sashweights if been using your sash windows for over a period of time. They may be sagging or catch. The weights can be too heavy (they should be a bit heavier than the top sash) or they've been installed incorrectly. To correct this issue, first pry off the stops (the trim along the inside edges of the window where it joins the frame and holds it in the frame) and set them aside. This requires you to be careful so as to not scratch the shape of your meeting rails. You can then employ a mallet or hammer to break up the rail and stiles and inspect the rails for damage or any repairs that must be done. After examining the stiles and rails of the sash some dust sheets on the floor and begin working. Begin by removing the wood pegs using a pin punch and hammer or screwdriver from the mortise-and tenon joints. Once the pegs are removed you can begin to disassemble the sash by removing the sash stop moldings, pulling off any sash cord knots still connected, and then taking the sash off itself. The next step is to weigh the sash and determine how much weight is needed to ensure the proper functioning. You can find old-fashioned replacement sashweights online or in a few home improvement stores. Make sure you get the right size to avoid under or over-weighing the sash. Sash Cords Sash cords that are worn out or broken can cause sash window issues. Sash cords endure constant stress from the weights, which can cause them break over time, particularly if they're not properly maintained. The sashes will not open or close as easily when the cords break. The problem may be caused by excessive force, ageing, lack of maintenance, or moisture buildup. It is essential to replace the old cords in window sash repairs with new ones made of a material that is strong and resistant to moisture. Begin by removing the internal stops, the thin pieces of wood that hold the sashes in place with a utility knife and a Chisel. Carefully pry the stops off 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 sashweights by opening the jamb or taking out the weight pocket. Accessing the sash's cords requires some effort but it's not a problem with the right tools and perseverance. First, remove the old cords by cutting them near their knots, and then pulling them away. Remove the sash and set it aside. Remove the staff bead, which is the nail that keeps the sash in its place. Insert a nail of about a foot length into the hole. This will stop the sash from slipping away while you string the counterweights. Reattach the sash strings following installing the upper sash. Make sure that the sashes move smoothly and are in a balanced position. Then, install the lower sash, and repeat the process, making sure that the sashes are properly sitting and moving smoothly. Reattach the sash cable after you have installed the counterweights. Thread the cord through the pulleys and then through the knot hole in the sash. Repeat this procedure for each side of the sash until all cords have been replaced and the sashes function normally again. Air leaks and drafts Over time, the components that seal sash windows to your frame of your home deteriorate which can cause drafts and loss of energy. A thorough inspection will identify the problem areas and assist you in determining your window sash repairs options. Your comfort preferences and ability level determine whether you are able to manage window repairs to your sash or require professional input. The historical status of your property and structural integrity issues also influence the scope of work necessary. When cold air sneaks in through a drafty window your furnace is forced to be working overtime to keep your home warm. This can result in higher heating expenses, and can compromise the efficiency of your HVAC system. In addition, drafts affect your indoor comfort and can degrade indoor air quality by forcing in outdoor pollutants, allergens, and humidity. A drafty window can be identified by the feeling of cold air coming into the room, even if all windows and doors are shut. Other tell-tale signs include a fluctuation in the temperature of your room near the window and condensation around the frame or sill. Fortunately, repairing drafty windows is a simple task that can reduce the cost of energy and increase indoor comfort. The first step is to inspect the window's exterior. Check for areas of bare caulking or broken wood which exposes the window to cold air. Examine the sash's connection to 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 they are intact and functional. If not, it needs to be replaced. Examine the condition of glazing putty. This is a hard putty that is used to hold panes of tempered glass in place. Check for cracks and crumbling that can expose the sash's exterior to moisture. This could lead to problems with mold and damage to the glass. Apply a fresh layer of glazing putty on the outside of the window to correct the issue. Using a flat-blade screwdriver, push the glazing points into position to fix them. Then wrap a piece of foam and a piece of fabric around each point to form an insulation layer 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 a costly and time-consuming undertaking, particularly for older homes. In many cases, fixing window sashes can bring back the original beauty of a home and add value to it as well. It is important 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 require repair it's a good idea to have them inspected by a professional. The cost of repairing a sash is typically lower than the expense to replace the whole window, and it can help save you money on energy bills as well. The first step is to lower the upper sash to the bottom. sash window repair is usually easy and will allow you to get an unobstructed view of the “parting beads” (these are grooved pieces in the rail that connects either side that keep the 2 sliding sashes from colliding). They can be removed using the help of small pry-bars or a putty-knife. They are usually fixed in place and painted, so you must be careful not to damage them or the sliding sash. After you've removed your parting beads, the next task is to take off the covers for your pockets. These are small pieces of wood that are nailed into the frame at the bottom. They permit access to the sashweights. Once they are removed, the sash will be moved up and down to check that it moves smoothly. If it doesn't, there might be an issue with the counterweights or sash cords. After you've checked all these, you can repair them as needed. Wooden windows have a natural look that blends in with both modern and traditional style interiors. The options for staining and painting are endless. However, wooden windows do require regular maintenance to prevent damage and decay.