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Sash Window Repairs If windows in sash don't receive proper maintenance, they can become ineffective. This can lead to drafts as well as energy loss and water damage. Paint can peel and crack leaving the timber exposed to the elements. Specialist joiners will paint the wood or re-stain it, fixing any damage. An easel can be a helpful tool for working on sash windows since it gives you a stable platform to work from. A good scraper is also vital. Sash Cords that are Broken or damaged Over time, sash cables can become brittle. They can break or snap. This is typically caused by a issue with the window itself or broken pulleys. However, it can also occur when the sash is opened and closed repeatedly. If this happens, the sash will likely be difficult to move up and down without sticking or requiring a significant effort. To repair broken cords of sash, first you need to open the window and locate the parting beads, a thin strip of wood that separates the lower and upper sashes. With upvc sash windows , gently pull the bead loose from the frame. After removing the bead you can begin to remove the sash. When the sash is removed, you'll need to find the two cast iron weights that are housed in a pocket located on either side of the sash. Typically, one weight is located in the back (towards the exterior side of the window frame) and the other in the front (towards interior side of frame). Remove both weights and place them in a separate area. Once you have removed the counterweights, remove the access panel from the sash channel. It may be necessary to use screws or a chisel in order to remove the panel dependent on the type of window you own. After the panel is removed, you'll be in a position to see the spring that is coiled to help retract the sash cords. If the spring isn't working correctly, you will notice the window trying to move or feel the slightest resistance. Re-coiling the coil will solve this issue. Once it's re-coil you can tie it in place with a piece of cord. This is vital because a loose knot may cause the cords' to unravel and not retract when required. After the cords have been re-tied and secured, you are able to replace the access panels and jambliner, and put the sash back in the proper position. Double-check that the new cords are long enough and tied securely. After this, you can insert the sash cords into the slots and holes on the sides of the lower sash and put the counterweights back in their pockets. You can now test your work by moving the sash upwards and downwards to make sure it is moving smoothly without any issues. Drafts and Air Leaks Sash windows often develop air leaks and drafts due to age, damage to the window, or just poor construction. Although these problems are typically an indication of the windows being ready to be replaced, they can also be fixed or reworked with some effort. One of the most prevalent air leak and draft problems is caused by weather stripping that is worn or the absence of any weather stripping at all. Foam tape or a similar product is a good choice to seal the gaps between the sash and frame. This will help to seal the gap and block cold or hot air. If the weather stripping is missing or damaged or folded over, this can result in drafts and a loss of energy efficiency. If the wood on your windows are getting rotten, you'll probably need to replace the windows. This isn't always the case, though it's possible that your Tasker might be able to save the wood by making carefully-planned repairs. Typically, the best way to tell whether your sash windows have begun to decaying is to push an electric screwdriver into the wood and then observing if it is able to go all the way through. A simple fix is to replace the pockets covers and bead. This can be done by scoring the paint between the sash and frame with an utility knife, and then cutting the pocket cover or parting bead away using a chisel or scraper. It is easy to replace the beading because it's available in similar designs. Once these repairs are made Once these repairs are completed, you can count on your sash windows to be functional and attractive again! It's not always feasible to fix old sash windows that are considered beyond repair. However most of them are able to be repaired and last for a long time. A Tasker's appointment is a good idea for window repairs that are more complicated than standard corrosion or scratch treatments. These tasks can take longer to be completed. Most Taskers can finish these kinds of repairs in a the space of a few hours or less. Rotting Wood If wood begins to rot it loses its ability to hold nails and other fasteners. The loss of structural integrity can eventually result in window damage, or even complete collapse. Repairing wood windows that are rotting can be a good fix however replacing them usually a better solution. To prevent the rotting of your sash window, you should inspect them on a regular basis to look for signs that moisture is building up. When you perform routine maintenance, you must clean your windows to remove the dirt and grime that may stop the movement of sashes. Dehumidifiers are also a great option to regulate humidity, since too much moisture can cause the wood to stick and expand. You can also use a thin layer of wax on the windows and sashes in order to keep them lubricated. If a sash becomes stuck the first step is to examine the counterweights for any imbalance. If the counterweights are in good shape and there is no sign of imbalance, the issue could be caused by air leaks or drafts. You can fix the draft with rope caulk, foam tape or other adhesives. It is often possible to save a window that has minimal rot by using a wood filler to repair the damaged area. Choose a wood filler that matches the color and type of wood you have chosen to ensure smooth appearance. After the filler dries then sand it to a smooth finish before painting. If you spot a piece of sash that's completely decayed, replacing it with a new piece of wood will be your best option. Removing old wood windows with weighted sash can be a challenge It's essential to preserve as much of the original frame as is possible to cut down on the cost of labor and avoid damage. Before beginning the process, take a photograph of the window as it's assembled to serve as a reference point for the disassembly procedure. It's also an excellent idea to construct an easel out of framing lumber so that you can work from a standing position and get the most optimal angles for glazing and scraping. This job is made easier with a quality scraper such as the Bahco that allows you to adjust the blades to the perfect angle for any curved part of the sash. Damaged Frame As windows age, their frame may be damaged and rotting. The good thing is that it's possible to repair the old frames of timber instead of replacing them. However this is a large project that requires a lot of materials. The task can last anywhere from a few seconds to a full day. A professional can remove the decayed parts or wood fillers and apply natural preservatives to prolong the life of your windows. This will save you energy costs and also prevent drafts from entering your home. A tasker will also replace rotting or damaged sills as well as parts of the sash. They will often use your original window as a reference so you don't have to purchase a complete new set. To repair a damaged sash, first steam the sash in order to remove any varnish or paint. Then scrape it down to the wood's surface before applying primer and reinstalling the glazing putty and glass. After that, sand the sash and sash frame to a smooth surface and apply two coats of primer. The earliest sashes were linked with wooden pegs that were driven through a mortise and tenon. This kind of joint could be more difficult to detach and you'll need a handsaw, a knife or a sharp object to cut the glueline. Sashes that were later made used glue, which is much easier to break apart. After the sash is repaired, it's time to reinstall the track of vinyl inside the frame. Utilize a screwdriver to loosen the pawls of each terminal that locks, and then lower the sash until it's in the jamb liners of vinyl and snaps into place. It is important to apply glazing putty prior replacing your sash. This is a mixture of linseed oil and chalk, and you can buy it at any hardware store. Keep a few extra pieces of chalk on hand to make the putty workable and for cleaning. After the putty has been mixed, knead it until it's smooth. Add additional chalk if necessary to achieve a uniform consistency.