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Window Sash Repairs Most homeowners don't think much about window sashes — so long as they are able to are closed, open, and keep outside air out and the interior air in. As time passes, window sashes can become worn out and lead to air leaks, drafts or even sashes that are stuck. With Repair My Windows And Doors propped up on a DIY easel, the author works glazing points into gaps. He also scrapes paint off the frame before applying wood preserver. Sash Weights When windows aren't opening or closing in a smooth manner or are sticking due to a problem with the counter-balancing system, it's possible that a could be at fault. This could be due to a damaged or missing sash chain, a misaligned or unattached sashweight, or a broken or cracked pulley. The sashweights are small boxes made of cast-iron that balance the counter-weight system and help support the sash. They are located in the bottom rails of every window frame and are covered with a wooden access panel that can be removed to reveal their location. The panels can be removed to gain access to the weight pockets in the sash to clean, repair or replacement. There may be an issue with the sashweights, if you've been using your sash windows for over a period of time. They could lean or catch. The weights may be too heavy (they should be a bit heavier than the top sash) or they've been installed improperly. To resolve this issue take out the stops (the trim that runs along the inside of the window at the point that it joins with the frame to keep it in position). Place them aside. This requires you to be gentle in order 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 check them for damage or any repairs that require to be made. After examining the stiles and rails of the sash, put dust sheets on the floor and begin working. Start by removing wood pegs using a pin-punch and hammer or screwdriver from the mortise-and tenon joints. Once the pegs are removed then you can begin disassembling the sash by taking out the stop moldings for sash and removing any sash cord knots attached and, finally, removing the sash itself. The next step is to weigh the sash in order to determine the amount of weight it requires for functioning. You can find vintage replacement sash weights online or at a few home improvement stores, but you should ensure that you purchase the right size so as not to over or under weight the sash. Sash Cords The majority of sash window problems result from damaged or worn sash cords. The weights put constant pressure on the sash's cords and this can cause them break over time. The sashes won't be able to open or close as easily if the cords break. The problem can be caused by a number of reasons, including 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 materials that are durable and resistant to moisture. Begin by removing the inner stops which are the thin pieces of wood that keep the sashes together using a knife or a the chisel. Carefully pry the stops off of the sashes, keeping an eye on cracks or broken. After removing the stops, you can gain access to the sashweights by opening the jamb or taking out the weight pocket. Accessing the sash cords requires some effort however it's not too difficult with the right tools and patience. First, take off the old cords by cutting them close to their knots and then pulling them out. Then, you can remove the sash from the frame and set it aside. Pull down the staff bead. This is the nail that keeps the sash in place. Put an approximately one foot length into the hole. This will temporarily stop the sash from falling while you string the counterweights. Reattach the sash string after installing the upper sash. Make sure that the sashes move in a smooth manner and are balanced. Reinstall the lower sash and repeat the procedure. Check that the sashes have been properly set and are moving in a smooth manner. Once you've completed installing the counterweights, reconnect the sash cords, by inserting an sash cord into the pulleys and threading the cord's other end through a knot hole in the sash to secure it into place. Repeat this process for the opposite side of the sash to ensure that the sashes function normally again. Air leaks and drafts Over time, the components that secure sash windows to your frame begin to degrade creating drafts and energy loss. A thorough inspection will identify the trouble spots and help you decide on the best options for repairs to your window sash. Your comfort level and level will determine if you can manage yourself or require assistance from a professional for window repair. Historical property status and structural integrity concerns also influence the scope of work that is required. If cold air is able to enter through a sluggish window, your furnace has to be working overtime to keep your home warm. This inefficiency is a drain on your heating bills and compromises the effectiveness of your HVAC system. Additionally, drafts can disrupt your indoor comfort and reduce the quality of your indoor air by bringing into the outdoor air pollutants, allergens and humidity. A drafty window can be identified by the feeling of cold air rushing into a room, even when all windows and doors are shut. Other telltale signs are changes in temperature near the window, as well as condensation around the sill or frame. Fortunately, repairing drafty windows is a relatively simple task that can reduce the cost of energy and increase the comfort of your home. The first step is to examine the window's exterior. Examine for bare wood and areas where the caulking has cracked, exposing the gaps to cold air. Examine the sash's interface to the frame including the parting beads and staff bead. Check the condition of the weather stripping (felt strips or foam tape) at these points to determine if it's still intact and functional. If not, it needs to be replaced. Also, take note of the condition of glazing putty, a hard putty that holds panes glass in place. Examine for cracks or crumbling that expose the sash to moisture which can cause mold issues and even damage the glass of windows. Apply a fresh layer of glazing putty to the inside of the window to fix the problem. Using a flat-blade screwdriver, push the glazing points into place to secure them. Then, wrap a piece of foam and a fabric around each point to form an insulation agent against cold air. Aesthetics Window sash repairs can give old windows a new look for less money than an entire window replacement. A complete window replacement could be a costly and time-consuming undertaking, particularly for older homes. Often, repairing windows sashes can help restore the original appeal of a home and add value to it as well. Be vigilant about the condition of window sashes is important to prevent major problems. If you're not sure if your windows are in need of repair, it's best to have them assessed by an expert. The cost of a sash repair is usually less than the cost to replace the whole window, and can reduce your energy bills as well. The first step is to lower the upper sash down to the bottom. This is generally easy and allows you to see the “parting beads” which are grooved bits on the rails that keep the two sliding sashes apart. They can be removed using a blade from small pry-bars or a putty-knife. They are usually fixed in place and painted, so you must be careful not to harm them or the sliding sash. After removing the beads that separate, you'll need to take off the pocket covers. These are small pieces of wood that are nailed into the frame at the bottom. They permit access to the sashweights. After the nails are removed, you can move the sash upwards and downwards in order to make sure it moves smoothly. If it doesn't, it might be a problem with the counterweights or the sash cords. After you've checked them all you can fix them if you need to. Wooden windows are beautiful and natural that blends with both traditional and contemporary style interiors. They are also highly customizable, with many stain and paint options. However, wooden windows do require regular maintenance to prevent damage and rot.