How To Explain Sash Window Repair To Your Boss

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and crack. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then seeks replacements, like washers or nuts, to ensure that her window is balanced.

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

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. You'll lose your view in the event that they shake in a storm. On the other side, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise in and your energy costs may increase. Both scenarios are not optimal, but they can be corrected with the right tools and perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted window tracks, which can cause them to block. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Remove the old caulking from 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. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic as well as an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Then, clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for better sliding. It is available at most home improvement stores, or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or has snapped off completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window if this is the situation.

A pin that keeps the rail in place might have been ripped out. It can be difficult to fix and you will require the help of a professional most of the time.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. This liquid dries quickly and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it, you can pry off the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights, they can let cold air seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips that are available in most hardware stores. These are effective, but they will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with usage.

A more permanent option is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This is a bit costly and will need to be reapplied throughout the course of your windows' lifespan, but it is an option for the long term and is easy to take off if you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply roll it up and then push it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and possibly cause fire. Furthermore, the sash will need to be removed for you to re-open the window and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights and the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also addressing any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than removing windows and will reduce draughts, increase the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are usually constructed of high-quality wood. If you can restore them properly, they can be restored to give you the best performance for many years to come. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up, which can cause wood to rot.

The majority of issues you'll encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is difficult to repair, since fungus eats the wood. While it is possible repair rotten timber, the best way to avoid future decay is to keep the wood dry.

The first thing to do is to strip any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side, which permit access to the weights must be removed. You may require a sharp knife for removing them if they are painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to remove any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the wood filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window as well to make sure they are properly balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or even be damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be installed that will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. As time passes, this could cause wood decay, which in turn will need to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks on the window, or the frame becoming soft to the touch. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft. A professional will be required to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

It can be very concerning when triple and double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens, the structural integrity of windows could be in danger and will most likely require to be replaced by a different option.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped cord or a problem with sash the ratchets. If the issue is with the sash the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.

The sash should be removed from the frame and clearing the tracks of dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings, and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal can then be applied around the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.