A Diy Guide To Overhauling Sash Windows

By Author: Steven LaPolla
Total Articles: 6
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When it comes to your sash windows becoming damaged or having a fault it really can be the most frustrating thing in the world but here are a few tips to get your sash windows back on track.Candle in the WindIf there is a draught coming through the top or bottom of your sash window you can normally use your hand to find where the gap is but if it is so small that you cannot feel it then simply light a candle and run it slowly along the edges of the window until the flame flickers alerting you to the draught location.Taking off the lower windowIt sounds like a big job but it's not really. The Lower sash cannot fall onto the floor as it is being held in place by inner staff beads. These are detachable and held in place by some small nails. Once you have removed the beads by prying them out with a chisel then the lower sash should come out pretty easily. If the cord is still attached you can cut it and replace it with a new one at the same time.Removing the Sash WeightOn both sides of the window frame you will find the compartments which hide the weights called the pockets, this can be pried out quite easily. Behind the pockets ...
... are the iron sash weights, they are quite long and rather heavy for such a small item. You can replace them with modern weights at this point if you so desire and keep the originals for a good talking point on your shelf.Check the PulleysAt the same time while removing the sash weight it is a great opportunity to test and check the pulleys. If a window has been maintained well it will also mean that it would have been painted over and over and it may at some point in time have caused the pulleys to become stuck or harder to move. Chip away at any paint that may have congealed near them and give them a good wipe.Fixing New CordsIt is pretty simple to tie off new cords to the sash weights. You have to feed the cord through the hole in the top of the weight and push it down so it comes out of the side of it. Tie a knot so that it won't pull back and hey presto - New cord attached. The older cords tend be of higher quality and much more durable than the modern ones so if you can retain the original then do just that.Put the Lower Window BackMake sure the cord is secure and tight and then cut of any left over. Put back the weights and get the pockets back into place over the weights. Re-align the cord into grooves and put the sash back into place. Leave the window leaning out a little bit at the top and pull the sash weights all the way up. Once the cords are secure then the window should drop into place perfectlyPainting the windowsUse clean light coats and air the room constantly and you're halfway to getting it right. Make sure to open and close the window every 15 minutes or so to ensure it doesn't dry in a certain position. Overhauling a sash window yourself can be hard work but it can be a rewarding and inexpensive way to do it.