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The Most Effective Sash Window Repair Tricks To Transform Your Life
How to Repair a Sash Window

Experts agree that restoring old windows made of sash is more environmentally sustainable and cost-effective than replacing them. Why not try it yourself?

Addressing issues like sticking sashes and draughts and visible damage can make your home more livable. Here are some suggestions to consider before getting started.

Damaged Sash Cords

When the cords that pull the sash upwards and down become worn out, it becomes difficult to open or close the window. In some cases, the cords may even break. Sash cords have to be replaced to fix this problem. This is a fairly simple repair for any homeowner, and can usually be accomplished within an hour or so if you're working on just one lower sash.

Begin by preparing your work area and covering the floor with a tarp to catch any debris or loose nails that fall when you take down the window. Wear a face mask if you're working on an older house to shield yourself from dust from lead paint.

First, remove the stop beads. They are tiny pieces that surround the inner window frame to stop the sash sliding out. Remove the window sash and set it on a table or workbench. Then, you'll be able to access the pockets for weights. They are cast-iron weights that are located behind the window frame. After you have removed the weights as well as the old sashcords, the weights, you are able to replace them with the new ones.

First, take a measurement of the length of the old cord so you know how long to cut your new cord. Then tie a knot on the end of your new cord so it won't slide over the top of the old pulley. Now you can feed your new cord through the access hole that you opened on the panel cover. Reinstall the window sash and test it.

Install the panel cover, the staff bead, and make sure that all nails are securely pushed into the window box. Make sure they're set below the surface level of the wood in order to keep from damaging the painted finish or restricting the sash's movement. If the sash doesn't slide smoothly, you can seal the gap between the staff bead and the window box with decorators caulk in order to limit draughts.

After the caulk has dried it's time to put back in the sash and the trim. If you are not confident with tools, you can engage an expert repair service to repair the sash cables for you. However this is a costly option. Most homeowners will choose a DIY solution that involves replacing the cords on their own.

Broken Sash Weights

The sash cords could be damaged if your window isn't closing or opening properly. Replace the old sash cords, and you'll be able to get your windows back in good working order.

Begin by removing the screws that hold the stop beads using a screwdriver. Then lift the sash off the window frame. If there are access panels on the jambs, open them to access the sash pulleys and the weights. Remove the sash carefully from the frame and lay it on dust sheets, if you are able, to avoid damage to paintwork and wall paper in the process.

Make sure you check the pulleys and sashweights and sash to ensure they're in order. You might need to balance the sash which is heavy. You can purchase lead sashweights online or from your local hardware store if don't have them already.

Remove any slack from the cords once you've removed the sashweights. Then, feed the new sash cord through the pulley and out the other end of the channel on the sash. Then, pull the cord until it touches the weight. Tie a knot.

Repeat the process for the second cord. Then, insert the sash back into the window frame ensuring it is level. Replace the parting bead and staff bead if necessary and cover the gaps with decorators caulk.

The last step is to re-insert the inner sash stops. Get help from an expert in case you're unsure of how to go about it. After reinstalling them, test the windows for functioning. If they are, you can begin building the window by replacing the trim and access panel covers, as well as painting the areas that were damaged or covered up during the repairs. Ensure the window is well installed before the process of putting it back in place. You can check this by placing it on a scale to make sure that the two sash weights are equal in size. If they're not, you can make use of lead'make-up weights to make sure that the sash is balanced.

Sashlocks that aren't working

A faulty lock on a sash window is one of the most common reasons why a sash will not open or close correctly. In some instances, this can be simple to fix. However, in other cases the lock might need to be replaced. A damaged lock can be a security concern because it permits burglars to gain access to your house.

double glazed window repairs are designed to to withstand the weight of the sash, but they can still wear out over time. This is because the hardware is placed under a lot of stress as well as the natural movement of the foundation. If you're experiencing issues with a defective window lock, you need to look for other issues that could cause it fail.

A misaligned interlock can be the cause of the sash lock to not lock properly. A small alignment error could prevent the keeper from engaging the latch and preventing the door from closing. This can be fixed by pushing the bottom sash into the room and lifting the top sash up.

Another common reason for a sash lock that doesn't work is the build-up of rust in the mechanism itself. A lot of older window frames are constructed of wood or aluminum, and this is prone to corroding over time. The corrosion can then connect the mechanisms and stop them from closing and opening correctly.

In some cases it may be necessary to replace the entire fastener for the sash. This can be done quickly. It's an easy process that only requires a few tools as well as patience. First, you'll need to remove the fastener, then clean the surface of any debris or rust. Then you can make use of a drill to create new holes for the screw and bolt. Then, you'll need fix the new fastener in the correct position and ensure it's secure.

It's a fairly simple task that can be done by most homeowners, and will ensure your window is both safe and secure. It's a great method to reduce air infiltration and make your home more energy efficient It's definitely worth it if your sash windows aren't locking properly.

Broken Glass Panes

Glass panes are broken by baseballs, lawnmower knives and other debris. When this occurs, you have to decide if you want to repair the glass pane or replace the entire window sash. Depending on how damaged the glass is, you might also have to remove the glazing compound and the metal points. Wear gloves, a mask, and eye protection when working on a cracked pane. Also, cover your floor with a drop cloth to prevent tiny glass particles from contaminating your work area and creating an hazard to children or pets.

Before you can replace a window pane, you must remove the old one and scrape away any old putty or caulking from the frame's rabbets, or the grooves that hold the glass. If there's lots of putty, it might be required to make use of a pull-type paint scraper or an old chisel, and tap lightly to avoid breaking the window. A heat gun may help soften the old putty, so it is easier to get rid of. After taking off the old pane smooth the rabbets and apply new caulking compound or the glaziers compound.


While the putty is drying, prepare the new pane for installation by cleaning it and wiping it clean using a damp sponge. Remove the insulation from the glass by cutting it at the top and bottom using a utility blade. The metal points that hold the glass in place can be removed by hitting them or pulling them with the help of a putty knife.

To replace the glass pane that was glazed, make a length of glaziers' compound into a rope about 3/4 inch thick. Then press it into the rabbet around the edges of the glass and pressing it firmly against the wood sash. When you're done making sure there are no gaps or holes between the putty and the frame then fill them in with more compound. Let the putty dry completely before repainting the window. Wear protective gloves and cover the work area with a drop cloth to shield yourself from glass shattering.

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