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Window Sash Repairs Many homeowners don't care about window sashes — insofar as they open, close, and keep the outside air out and the inside air in. Over time window sashes may get worn out and cause drafts, air leaks, or even sashes to become stuck. With a sash propped up on a DIY easel, the author works glazing points into gaps. He also scrapes paint off and applies an oil-based preservative to the frame. Sash Weights If windows aren't opening and closing smoothly or are sticking the way they should, a malfunctioning counter-balancing system could be at fault. This can occur because of a broken or damaged sash chain or cord as well as a misaligned or unattached sash weight, or a broken 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. pvc sash windows repairmywindowsanddoors are situated in the bottom rails of every window frame, and are covered by an access panel of wood which can be opened to reveal their position. The panels can be removed for access to the sash-weight pockets to clean and repair or replace them. There could be a problem with the sashweights if had your sash windows over a period of time. They could catch or lean. The weights may be too heavy (they should be a bit heavier than the top sash), or installed in a way that isn't correct. To fix this problem take out the stops (the trim that runs along the inside edge of the window at the point that it joins the frame to keep it in place). Put them away. This requires you to be gentle so as to not harm the appearance of your overlapping rails. Then, you can use a hammer to separate the stiles and rails, and check them for damage. After inspecting the rails and stiles of the sash, place dust sheets on the floor and begin working. Start by taking the wood pegs out of the mortise and tenon joints using pin punches and a hammer or screwdriver. After removing the pegs, you can start disassembling the sash. Remove the sash stop moldings as well as any sash cords that are still in place. Next, you will need to weigh the sash to determine how much 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 so as not to overload or underweight the sash. Sash Cords Sash cords that have worn out or broken can lead to sash window issues. Sash cords are constantly under stress from the weights, which could cause them to break over time, particularly when they're not maintained properly. If cords break, sashes won't be able to open and close easily. The problem can be caused by a number of things like excessive force, aging, a lack of maintenance and moisture buildup. It's important that you replace the old cords during window sash repairs with new ones made of an material that is robust and resistant to moisture. Begin by removing the inner stop strips, thin wood strips which hold the sashes in their place with a utility knife and a Chisel. Take care to remove the stops of the sashes, while keeping an eye out for cracks or broken. After the stops have been removed, you can access the sash's weights by using an access panel that is cut into the frame's bottom or by opening the jamb and removing the weight pocket cover. Accessing the sash cords takes some extra effort, but it's not difficult with the right tools and patience. Remove the old cords first by cutting them in knots, and then pulling them out. Then, remove the sash from the frame and put it aside. Pull down the staff bead, which is the nail that holds the sash in position. Put a nail of about a foot length into the hole. This will keep the sash in place while you finish stringing counterweights. After reinstalling the upper sash, reattach the sash cords and make sure the sashes are properly balanced and move smoothly. Reinstall the lower sash and repeat the procedure. Make sure that the sashes are properly seated and are moving in a smooth manner. After you've finished installing counterweights, connect the sash cords by placing the sash cord through the pulleys, and then threading the cord's other end through a knot hole in the sash, ensuring it is secured in place. Repeat this procedure for each side of the sash until cords have been replaced and the sashes are operating normally. Drafts and air leaks Over time, the materials that seal your sash window to the frame of your home begin to degrade. This leads to drafts and energy loss. A thorough inspection will reveal problem areas and guide your window sash repair options. Your comfort level and level will determine if are able to manage your own repairs or require assistance from a professional for window repair. The scope of work required is also influenced by historical property status and structural strength. If cold air is leaking through a drafty or drafty door or window, your furnace will have to work overtime to warm your home. This inefficiency is a drain on your heating costs and reduces 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 the outside. A typical sign of a drafty window is the feeling of cold air circulating through your home regardless of windows and doors being shut. Other signs to be aware of are an increase in temperature close to the window, as well as condensation on the sill or frame. Fixing drafty windows can be a simple task, which can reduce your energy costs and increase comfort inside. The first step is to inspect the window's exterior. Check for areas of bare caulking that is cracked or wood which exposes the window to cold air. Examine the sash's interface to the frame including the parting beads and staff bead. Examine the condition of weather stripping on these points (felt strips or tape) to determine if they're intact and working. If not, it's going to need to be replaced. Also, take note of the condition of glazing putty. It is a hard putty that holds panes of glass in place. Check for cracks and a crumbling surface that could expose the sash's surface moisture. This could lead to mold issues and damage to the glass. To resolve the problem, apply a layer of fresh glazing putty to the inside of your window. Using a flat-blade screwdriver, push the glazing points in place to hold them. Then wrap a piece of foam and a piece of fabric around each point to form an insulation agent against cold air. Aesthetics Window sash repair can give older windows a new appearance for less than a complete replacement. Particularly for homeowners who have older homes, a full replacement can be a big undertaking and a major financial commitment. Repairing window sashes is an excellent method to restore the beauty of your home and value. Be vigilant about the condition of window sashes is essential to avoid major problems. It is best to consult an expert if you're uncertain about whether your windows require repair. The cost of repairing a sash is usually less than the cost to replace the whole window, and could save your home energy costs as well. The first step is to lower the upper sash towards the bottom – this is usually easy and will give you an unobstructed view of the “parting beads” (these are grooved bits in the meeting rail on either side that keep the two sliding sashes separate). These can be removed with a blade that is attached to small pry-bars or a 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 you've removed the parting beads, the next step is to take off the covers for your pockets. These are bits of wood inside the frame, low down that give access to the weights for the sash and are typically fixed with nails – they may also be snagged with paint, so you have to be careful. Once the nails are removed you can move the sash up and down in order to make sure it moves easily. If not it could be a problem with the counterweights and cords for sash. After you've checked them all, you can fix them if you need to. Wooden windows have a natural beauty that blends seamlessly with modern and traditional style interiors. They can also be made to be highly customizable, with many stain and paint options. Wooden windows require regular maintenance to keep them from rotting and damage.