Full Answer
Should I repair or replace my sash windows?
- Foggy windows with inside condensation
- Poor interior faux muntins/mullions
- Structural problems
- Major water leakage
How to repair damaged window sash cords?
Steps:
- Remove the screws holding the stop beads with a screwdriver.
- Remove the sash from the window opening.
- Remove the screws holding the doors to the weight pockets using a screwdriver.
- Take out the old weights and broken sash cords.
- Feed a cotton line down the pulley hole and into the weight pocket.
How to repair sash cords on wooden windows?
How To Replace a Broken Sash Cord
- Start by removing the trim around the window. Score the edges of the trim with a utility knife to loosen the paint, then gently pry off the trim. ...
- Remove the sash. The cord may be broken on only one side, but it’s best to replace both while you have the window open.
- Hold the cord to gently lower the weight, then cut and remove the visible sash cord.
How to replace and repair your casement window sash?
How to Repair Old Windows
- Overview. ...
- Fix a stripped crank handle. ...
- Replace a stubborn crank operator. ...
- Fix a sticking window. ...
- Replace a sagging hinge. ...
- Seal a drafty window: Weather stripping casement windows. ...
- Replace a fogged sash. ...
- Required Tools for this Project. ...
- Required Materials for this Project. ...
How do you fix a window sash cord?
3:215:31How to Repair Damaged Window Sash Cords | Ask This Old HouseYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUp almost to the top and back it down just a little bit. So now i push the rope in the dado. And iMoreUp almost to the top and back it down just a little bit. So now i push the rope in the dado. And i line it up at the bottom of the hole. And that's where i will tie my knot.
How do you change the sash cord on a sash window?
7:4715:44Replace Sash Cords on Wooden WindowsTutorial - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd you want to wrap it around that in very tight tight like a shoelace. End then you want to justMoreAnd you want to wrap it around that in very tight tight like a shoelace. End then you want to just take a utility knife and you want to cut the end of it.
When fixing a broken sash cord do you remove first?
If you're replacing a lower sash cord, you'll have to take out your lower sash window. But if it's the upper sash cord, you'll need to remove the lower sash first and then the upper one.
How do you measure the length of sash cord to replace a broken one?
Measure the distance from the bottom of the cord slot on the side of the sash to the bottom of the sash - see right. Mark the distance on the side stile measuring up from the bottom of the frame - see right. When the stage is reached to cut the cord, the final measurement will be taken from these marks.
How do you tie a sash cord?
0:594:20Sash window repairs quickie tip 2 Tying on weights (knots to use)YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThis particular site requires a knot we pass the Rope through the center hole at the top pull it outMoreThis particular site requires a knot we pass the Rope through the center hole at the top pull it out there are numerous ways to tie these but the way I tie it is simply to make a loop.
What is sash rope?
noun. a cord for connecting a vertically sliding window sash with a counterweight.
How do I access my sash weights?
9:2713:30Window Weight Access for Old Windows - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd here's the weight you can access the weight right. And through this area you can access um bothMoreAnd here's the weight you can access the weight right. And through this area you can access um both weights there's another weight the weight for the top window is over here still tied.
Do all sash windows have weights?
Traditionally, all sliding sash windows were operated by cast iron weights. A sash box of 98mm is built into each side of the window, which houses the weights. This is then attached to a piece of sash cord, which travels over a pulley in the top corners of the window and attaches to the sash that will be sliding.
What is a staff bead on sash window?
Staff bead is an internal bead that sits around the inner frame of the sash box. The main function is to hold the sashes in place in the sash window. The staff bead includes a seal channel for inserting your own draught seals but there are also pre-inserted options for effective draught proofing and weather sealing.
What can I use as a sash cord?
For the majority of windows a #8 (1/4″) cotton rope will work best. My favorite is Samson Spot Cord which has a 150 lbs. working strength which works great for nearly every residential window.
Why do sash cords break?
Over time, wear and tear causes sash cords to break. If one cord breaks, you may find that your window still stays open, but there will be added pressure on the cord on the other side.
How long should a sash cord be?
The standard residential size of sash cord is ¼-inch diameter. To determine how long your sash cord needs to be, measure the height of the entire window opening from the sill area to the top of the jamb. Add 6 inches to this height to get the needed length.
How do I access my sash weights?
9:2713:30Window Weight Access for Old Windows - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd here's the weight you can access the weight right. And through this area you can access um bothMoreAnd here's the weight you can access the weight right. And through this area you can access um both weights there's another weight the weight for the top window is over here still tied.
How do you take apart a sash window?
2:303:32Removing an Old Sash Window - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTo the sash weights there's going to be a cover that's held in by a screw. This is going to lift outMoreTo the sash weights there's going to be a cover that's held in by a screw. This is going to lift out and pull down you can untie your knot. And now the sash weight can be removed through the opening.
Do all sash windows have weights?
Traditionally, all sliding sash windows were operated by cast iron weights. A sash box of 98mm is built into each side of the window, which houses the weights. This is then attached to a piece of sash cord, which travels over a pulley in the top corners of the window and attaches to the sash that will be sliding.
How do you repair a double hung window?
0:283:40Double Hung Window Balance Spring Replacement - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou will need a flathead screwdriver. Place the head of the screwdriver. Into the balance springsMoreYou will need a flathead screwdriver. Place the head of the screwdriver. Into the balance springs brake assembly. Be sure to place downward pressure on the screwdriver.
How to remove a sash from a window?
Steps: Remove the screws holding the stop beads with a screwdriver. Remove the sash from the window opening. Remove the screws holding the doors to the weight pockets using a screwdriver. Take out the old weights and broken sash cords. Feed a cotton line down the pulley hole and into the weight pocket.
How to replace a door to the weight pocket?
Replace the door to the weight pocket using screwdriver and screws. Pull on the cotton line and lift the weight almost to the top of the jamb . Fish the line along the dado cut of the sash. Tie a knot where the line meets the hole in the sash. Put the knot in the hole and nail it into the sash using a hammer and nail.
How to attach a sash cord?
Attaching the Sash Cord. Measure the length of the groove in the side of the sash and add about 5 inches to this length. While suspending the weight 4 or 5 inches above the sill level, hold the sash in the jamb at its highest position and mark the cord at the top of the sash with a pencil. Set the sash aside and cut the cord to length.
How to get a sash to not protrude?
Tuck the knot and cord into the side channel on the sash so it doesn't protrude and drive the nail into the sash using the same hole it came from. Use a phillips screwdriver or a nail set to sink the nail until it's tight. Slip the sash back into place and gently raise it into the open position.
How to keep cord from going through pulley?
Be careful not to let the end fly up and into the pulley hole. Tie a tight knot in the end and insert a long nail or screw through it to keep the cord from being pulled in through the pulley hole. Remove the old broken cord from the window sash. A nail is usually driven through a knot in the end of the cord and into the side.
How to fix a broken window?
Start the repair by removing the stop bead on one side of the window casing. Hold a broad chisel with the flat toward the jamb and drive it behind the bead at regular intervals to loosen the nails and pry it off. Remove the stop bead completely and pull the nails out. Set it aside.
How does a cast iron window work?
All these types of windows work in the same way, a cast iron weight is attached with a cord to both sides of each sash. The cord runs up to the top of the window jamb, through a pulley channel, and down to the weight inside the jamb. As the sash moves up and down the counterweight keeps it balanced and held in place.
What to do if a cord is broken?
If both cords are broken, remove the sash completely and set it aside while you string the counterweights. If only one cord is broken, pull the sash free from the casing and let the good counterweight hold it off to the side while you work.
How to get cord out of pulley?
Push one end of the cord through the top of the pulley opening and into the cavity. Roll the cord on the pulley wheel with your finger to push it into the cavity behind the jamb. Keep pushing cord through the pulley, letting it bunch up inside the jamb.
How does a box sash window work?
How does a sash window work? A box sash window operates by counterbalancing the weight of the sash against weights attached to a cord and passed over a pulley. These weights (usually cast iron, sometimes lead) travel up and down in a box, concealed within the window frame, hence the name Box Sash Windows.
How to use a mouse to pull a sash?
Often a ‘mouse’ is required – Simply attach a small weight (small enough to pass through the pulley – traditionally made of lead but you can try a nail) to the end of a piece of string (the mouse), drop it over the pulley and out of the pocket, to be used as a draw wire to pull the larger sash cord through.
How to remove parting beads from window?
Remove the parting beads. Using a sharp knife, slice along any paint joint formed between the parting beads and the box window frame. Gently prise the parting beads from their narrow grooves. Parting beads are made to be a snug fit for the groove, with no fixings, but some have subsequently been nailed in place.
Why is it important to have a sash that slides easily?
For sashes to slide easily, it is important that the weights and sash are equally balanced. Whilst the weights would have suited the original glass, glazing repairs may have used thicker, heavier glass which puts the system out of balance.
Can you replace sash cords?
Replacing sash cords or sash ropes is a relatively simple procedure for a competent diy person. Should you wish to completely recondition a sash window or simply need to remove the sashes to get large furniture into the property then these guidelines can be utilized. These guidelines are for the most common sliding box sash windows encountered.
Where should a chisel be positioned?
The chisel should be positioned into the small recess at the back of the staff bead, starting midway along the longest bead, where it can flex the most. Once a gap has been opened up the bead can be levered out, being sure to avoid injury on the protruding nails.
Do you need planing for a bottom sash rail?
The bottom sash rail may need planing, to bring the two meeting rails of the sashes level. Hang the bottom sash in the same way as you did the top.
What is the best material for sash cord?
Cotton is the best material for sash cord. My favorite is Samson Spot Cord since it has been around for over a century and is extremely durable. You want to replace your sash cord once and not have to replace cheap substandard rope again and again, so get something proven to last 60+ years like Samson rope.
How to make a pocket door with rope?
Starting with the top sash weight first, run the rope through the eye on the weight and tie a bowline knot so that when in the pocket the weight is floating just above the sill. Cut off any excess rope and re-install the pocket door. Test everything to make sure it moves freely.
Removing the sashes and weights
With the knife, score through the paint where one of the staff beads meets the inside lining, this makes for a much neater job, especially if there are lots of layers of old paint.
Re-hanging the sashes
Measure the distance from the bottom of each sash (including the horn in the case of the top sash) to the bottom of the sash-cord groove and make a mark on the pulley-stiles at this height above the cill.
