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Window Sash Repairs Many homeowners don't pay attention to window sashes, as long as they are able to open and close and keep the air inside and the air outside out. However, over time, they'll begin to wear out, causing drafts, air leaks, or even sashes sticking. With a sash propped on a homemade easel The artist works the glazing points into a gap. He also scrapes off paint and then applies an oil-based preservative to the frame. Sash Weights If your windows are not opening and closing smoothly or are sluggish, a faulty counterbalancing system could be the reason. This could be due to the sash being damaged or missing chain or a loose or misaligned weight, or a damaged or cracked pulley. The sashweights are tiny boxes made of cast-iron that balance the counter-weight system and support the sash. They are located on the bottom rails of every window frame. They are protected by a wooden panel which can be removed to reveal their location. secondary glazing sash window can be removed to allow access to the sash weight pockets to clean, repair or replace them. If you've used sash windows for a period of time, it's likely that you have a problem with the weights on the sash that cause them to sag or catch. The weights could be too heavy (they should be a bit heavier than the top sash) or they've been installed incorrectly. To fix this problem take out the stops (the trim that runs along the inside edge of the window at the point that it meets the frame to hold it in place). Place them aside. It is important to do this gently so as not to harm the profile of the meeting rails. Then, you can employ a hammer to break the stiles and rails and then inspect them for damage. After examining the rails and stiles of the sash, place some dust sheets on the floor and begin working. Begin by removing the wood pegs from the mortise and the tenon joints using pins and a hammer or screwdriver. After removing the pegs you can begin disassembling the sash. Take off the stop moldings for sash and any sash cords still in place. Next you will want to weigh the sash and figure out how much weight is needed for the proper functioning. You can find vintage weights for sash replacement online or at some home improvement stores, but you should be sure to purchase the right size to ensure not to under or over weigh the sash. Sash Cords Most sash window issues stem from worn or broken sash cords. Sash cords are constantly under pressure from the weights which can cause them to break over time, especially if they're not properly maintained. The sashes won't open or close as easily when the cords break. The problem may be caused by excessive force, ageing or a lack of maintenance or the accumulation of moisture. It's important that you replace the old cords during window sash repairs with new ones made of materials that are strong and resistant to moisture. Begin by removing the inner stop strips, thin wood strips that hold the sashes in the frame with a utility knife and a Chisel. Take care to remove the stops of the sashes while keeping an eye on any that are cracked or broken. After removing the stops you can access the weights on the sash by opening the jamb or taking out the weight pocket. Accessing the sash cords requires a little more work however it's not too difficult with the right tools and perseverance. First, take off the old cords by cutting them close to their knots and pulling them free. Then, take the sash from the frame and set it aside. Remove the staff bead, which is the nail that keeps the sash in place. Insert an approximately one foot in length into the hole. This will keep the sash on its place while you finish stringing counterweights. After installing the upper sash, reattach the sash cords and make sure the sashes are balanced and move smoothly. Then, you can reinstall the lower sash and repeat the process, making sure that the sashes are properly seated and moving smoothly. After you've finished installing the counterweights, reattach the sash cords by putting a sash cord through the pulleys and threading the other end of the cord through a knot hole in the sash to secure it into the correct position. Repeat the process for each side of the sash until all cords are replaced and the sashes function normally. Air leaks and drafts Over time, the components that secure sash windows to your home's frame deteriorate creating drafts and energy loss. A thorough inspection can identify problem areas and guide the repair options for your window sash. Your personal preferences for comfort and your skill level influence whether you are able to manage window sash repairs or require professional assistance. The scope of work required is also influenced by historic status of the property and its structural strength. If cold air is able to enter through a drafty window your furnace has to work overtime to keep your house warm. This can result in higher heating costs and could compromise the efficiency of your HVAC system. Drafts can also affect the quality of indoor air and cause discomfort in the home by the infiltration of allergens, pollutants and humidity from outside. A typical sign of a drafty windows is the feeling of cold air entering your room regardless of windows and doors being closed. Other indicators to look out for are changes in temperature near the window, as well as condensation on the frame or sill. Fixing drafty windows is an easy task, and will reduce your energy bills and increase comfort inside. First, inspect the exterior of the window. Look for areas of bare caulking or broken wood that exposes the window 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 the weather stripping on these points (felt strips or tape) to determine if they're in good condition and working. If not, it's time to be replaced. Take a look at the condition of the glazing putty. This is a hard putty used to hold panes of glass that has been tempered in place. Examine for cracks or crumbling that exposes the sash to moisture, which can cause mold issues and damage to the windows' glass. To fix the problem, apply a layer of fresh glazing putty on the inside of your window. Using a flat-blade screwdriver, push the glazing points into place to hold them. Then, wrap a piece of foam and a piece of fabric around each point to create an insulation layer against cold air. Aesthetics Window repair to sash can give older windows a new appearance for less than a complete replacement. A complete window replacement could be a costly and time-consuming undertaking, particularly for older homes. Sometimes, repairing window sashes can bring back the original beauty of a home and increase its value as well. It is important to be aware of the condition and wear of window sashes in order to avoid major problems. If you're not sure if your windows are in need of repair it's recommended to have them inspected by a professional. A sash repair is less expensive than replacing the entire window and can also help you save money on energy bills. The first step is to lower the upper sash to the bottom. This is generally easy and allows you to see the “parting beads”, which are the grooved bits on the meeting rails that keep the two sliding sashes separate. Remove these with the blade of a small bar or a putty blade – they are normally nailed in place and stuck by paint, so you need be careful not to scratch them or the sash. After removing the parting beads you will need to remove the pocket covers. These are pieces of wood inside the frame, low down, which allow access to the weights for the sash and are typically nailed in place – they can also be stuck with paint so you need be cautious. Once they are removed, the sash may be moved up and down to check that it is moving smoothly. If not then there may be an issue with the counterweights or cords for sash. After you've checked all these, you can repair them if needed. Wooden windows are beautiful and natural. They work well with both traditional or contemporary interiors. They can also be customized with a variety of stain and paint options. However, wooden windows require regular maintenance to prevent damage and rot.