- We create a clear working area around each sash window. This involves covering an area in plastic and dust sheets and may also require the temporary removal of some furniture.
- We assess each window individually for saferemoval. Common issues can range from glass being unsafe to the top sash being screwed or nailed in place which could cause it to fall when freed.
- We score a line along one of the vertical staff beads from the head to the window sill to break the paint joint between the staff bead and inner lining. This is to stop the paint chipping on the lining and staff bead and minimize making good (on ground floor windows if the bottom sash is painted shut we also score a line on the outside of the sash between the sash stile and parting bead).
- We remove the staff bead and any nails are pulled through with pincers to stop the head of any nail breaking the timber and to prevent paint flaking.
- Sash cords to the bottom sash are cut and a knot is tied in the cord to stop counter balance weights dropping and damaging the box frame. The bottom sash and pulley stile are marked at the end of the sash cord groove to give the position and length for the new cords to the bottom sash. The bottom sash is then removed.
- We cut down both parting beads to break the paint and then remove parting beads. (If the top sash is painted shut on any ground floor windows we score a line around the top sash to break the paint joint).
- Sash cords to the top sash are cut and a knot is tied in the cords to stop counter balance weights dropping and damaging the box frame. Top sash and pulley stiles are marked for position and length of new sash cords and the top sash is removed.
- Weight pockets and counter balance weights are removed by way of untying the knot and lowering the weight.
- If needed, any excess paint to outer linings is removed to ensure free movement to top sash. The groove to pulley stile is also cleared of excess paint and filler to ensure desired fit of the parting bead.
- Pulley wheels are checked and serviced. Debris is removed from lower sections of the weight cavity and any new wagtails are fitted if they have been removed (wagtails are small strips of timber that separate the counter balance weights).
- Both sashes and counter balance weights are weighed and adjusted to ensure correct counter balance.
- We then fit the weights and new heavy duty waxed sash cords and refit the weight pockets.
- The top sash is now refitted ensuring full movement and easy sliding in the box frame. Sash cords are screwed in place as brittle glass can crack if nails are used. Both parting beads are refitted.
- The bottom sash is now refitted and checked for full movement of sash.
- Staff beads are refitted and parting beads and staff beads are sealed with mastic.
- We then clear all debris from the working area. The dust sheets and plastic are removed and the room is hovered and any moved furniture is carefully put back into place.