12 Companies Leading The Way In Sash Windows Repair

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows add a touch elegance to any home. They can become drafty and troublesome as they get older. Sash window repair is a great method to increase the functionality and maintain the original appeal of your windows.

The first step in sash window repair is to take off the "pocket covers". These are bits of wood, low down on the frame that give access to the weights.

Sashes damaged by abrasions

If your sash window is damaged or leaks, you will need to do more than patch the surface. Performing a more comprehensive repair will save you money in the long run, especially when you live in an older house that has poor insulation. Here are some typical problems with sash windows and how to fix them:

Problems with Sticking

It can be difficult to shut or open the window when the sash doesn't fit properly into the frame. This can cause rattling noises and let drafts in your house.

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

Broken Sash Cords

Some double glazed sash windows wood-hung sashes from the past have cotton or metal cords that support the weights used to lift and lower the sashes. As time passes, these cords can break, making it difficult to raise or keep the sash in place. To fix this issue, follow these steps:

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 secondary glazing. Cut it and remove any nails protruding from the end. Utilizing needle-nosed pliers remove the nail and then insert it into the side channel. Tuck the knot in the cord into the hole and secure it with an nail set.

Install the staff beads and put them back in the sash. Make sure to leave enough for the cords to ensure the proper operation. Last but not least, put back the counterweights and balances. To minimize draughts small amount of decorators caulk could be applied between the staff bead and the box.

Once the sash and frame are repaired completely, cover them in glazing putty. Glazing putty is made with linseed and chalk. Mix in enough of the chalk to make it workable, and not 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 utilize cotton cords or metal chains that are attached to counterweights that support and keep the sashes level in the window jamb. Over time, the cords can break which prevents the sashes from opening and closing and makes it difficult to raise or lower the window. The cords of the sash can be replaced in less than hours.

Begin by removing the staff bead, which separates the lower and upper sashes. You can remove the bead by using needle-nose pliers. Normally, a nail is driven through the knot and into the casing of the sash to hold it in place. Remove any rusty nails from the stop beads and clean off caulk, paint, and old cord residue that has accumulated around the sash groove.

To open the window, pull on one of the cords running through the sash to raise it up. When you've pulled it as far as it can go then mark the cord with a pencil and cut it to length using an utility knife. After you've finished, make sure the new cord is aligned with the groove of the sash, and is tied to the frame of the sash by a knot.

If the sash remains too high to move then you can use your sharp side cutters to cut and remove the old cords. Once the sash is free, you'll need to remove the access panel inside the sash channel to expose the sash weight pockets, the counterweights, and the pulley system. If the window is painted, you may need to score the seams using the hammer and chisel in order to remove the access panel without damaging the paint.

After you have removed the access panel there are two cast-iron sashweights inside each pocket. Remove the weights on the back and front, then tie the sash cords onto the weights using self-tightening knot. Once you have tied the new cords, reattach the sashweights and set the system to work correctly.

Drafts

Sash windows add a hint of history to older homes, however, they also pose maintenance challenges. They can be difficult to open and close, rattle in the wind, and let drafts in. These issues are often caused by swollen or painted wood or sash cords that are rotten. There are a number of simple and cost-effective solutions to correct these issues and keep your sash window working properly.

Disassembling an old sash is the first step to repair it. Take off the sash and frame, and make sure that all parts are in good shape. Sand the wood to make it look better and stop drafts. A small amount of silicone or wax spray can help the sash slide more easily. If the sash remains sticking, use a utility knife to cut through any paint layers and remove it. A new set of tilt-pins can enhance the window's performance.

A sash window works by counterbalancing the weight of glass using weights that are passed through a pulley system. The weights, typically constructed of cast iron, are accessible via an access panel or pocket located on the inner box lining. To stop the weights from crashing down, a dividing strip is suspended within the frame to ensure that they don't collide.

Accessing these weights is difficult as the upper sash is painted shut and can be secured by nailing it in the correct position. However, if you're patient and careful, you can remove the sash with a pair of bar clamps that are reversed and spread apart, to ease it out of the groove in the rails that meet. It may be necessary to tap and jiggle to free it however, once it's gone you can inspect the sash and replace it with new rope.

While you're at it you could also change the sash balance to make the window easier to open and close. It's much easier than you think to replace the double-hung balance on a window. You can do it yourself if have the right tools and replacement sash windows kit.

Rotten sill

Even the most well-maintained windows will eventually exhibit signs of rot. If the rot is only affecting the sill of the window, it could be possible to fix it. If it has spread through the frame into the interior of the house and has damaged structural components, it is probably the time to replace it.

It is crucial to replace a rotten window sill before it causes further damage to the window. The first step is removing the sill plates and studs. If the studs are load-bearing you may have to build temporary supports. After taking the old sill off and cleaning any paint remaining from the sill plate. After cleaning the sill, replace it with a new board and nail it into the studs.

A sill that is rotten is not only unsightly but can cause costly repairs in the future. It could, for instance cause the sash, which is difficult to notice to notice, to shift. This can result in cracks, bowed or damaged glass pane. In addition, a rotten sill could allow water be able to enter the wall, which could lead to mold and other problems.

It's not as difficult as you think to repair a sill that is rotten. It is crucial to maintain the window to avoid rot. Therefore, you should clean regularly the window tracks and sashes to keep them free from dirt and other debris. Apply a protective seal on the frames of the windows to keep them dry. You can also utilize a humidifier to control the humidity inside your home. This will stop the wooden sashes from sticking or expanding.

Sticky sashes are a frequent problem with sash windows. This issue can be fixed by applying a small amount of silicone or wax to the window tracks. This will make them slide more easily. If the windows are stuck due to paint buildup, you can make use of a utility knife cut through the layers of paint and free the sashes.

Reinstalling the bead that is parting is another way to fix a stuck sash. If the sash remains stuck you can try to draught proof it. This process involves placing an insulating strip of rubber between the frame and sash, which reduces airflow and improves the acoustic quality of the window.