14 Common Misconceptions Concerning Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance, or even break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam will set each pan by putting the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll rattle during storms, and you'll lose your view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose can let outside noise and air in, and your energy bills can increase. Neither scenario is optimal, but both can be fixed with the proper tools and determination.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to jam. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Use a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply an oil based on silicone to aid in their smoother movement. It is available in most home improvement stores, Sash Window Repair or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to stop, the sash cable may be defective. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the window's cord.

Another possible cause of the jam could be that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you will require the help of an expert most of the time.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's recommended to use a wood softener on it. It's a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, so you'll be able repair your window without needing to remove it completely. After you've used it you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with a Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with sash windows that are old particularly in winter. They can be caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or using draught-excluding strips that are available in most hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy, rubbbery seal you can cut and then push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used alone or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you'll need to reapply it over the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is a good draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

A better option is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights and the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to fixing any minor wood imperfections. It's less disruptive than replacing the windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

The good news is that your frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are typically constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood decay.

The majority of problems with sash window are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult problem to fix because fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible repair wood that is rotten but the best way to avoid future rot is by keeping the wood dry.

The first step is to clean any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove the pockets if they're painted or nailed into place. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to check inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are properly balanced. They should not be misaligned, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to damage and wear from weather and wear over time. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which requires replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks under the window or the frame turning soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation, and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.

In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch can indicate this. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any repair or replacement of window sash components.

Triple and double glazed window repairs glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise pollution out of your home, and it could be a cause for worry when they begin to let it back in. If this happens, the structural integrity of windows could be at risk, and they will likely need to be replaced with an alternative option.

A typical sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an untidy cord or a problem with sash rattles. If it's the latter the gentle persuasion can usually help the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

This problem can be resolved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.