Why We Enjoy Sash Window Repair (And You Should, Too!)

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance or break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and keep an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove or pocket, which is located around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll shake during storms and you'll lose view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will let external noise and air in and your energy costs may increase. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal but they can be fixed by using the right tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint could accumulate in the channels they slide on, causing them jam. The majority of these issues can be resolved 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. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Then, clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth sliding. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam, the sash cable may be faulty. Verify whether the cord is tangled or hanging in the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to re-cord the window.

A pin that holds the rail in place could have been ripped out. This isn't easy to fix, and you'll need to consult an expert in the majority of cases.

You can use a wood softener in the event that the wood is swollen and swollen, but there's no pin. The liquid is quick drying and can repair damaged wood. You won't have remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you'll be able remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the bottom 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 are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can allow cold air to get in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few options you can take to stop draughts from coming through your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or draught excluder strips that you can purchase at many hardware stores. These are effective however you'll require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is costly and you will need to reapply it throughout the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it and push it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a reliable draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and could pose risky for fire. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm will need to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

A better option 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 staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, in addition to fixing any minor wood imperfections. It's less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be revived to provide the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood rot.

The majority of the issues you'll encounter with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since the fungus consumes the wood. Although it is possible to repair wood that is rotten, the best way to avoid further rot is by keeping the wood dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the position of the sash). The next step is to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely need to use an instrument to break them off. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.

It is a good idea to check inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be misaligned, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones or install a new balancing system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong way.

Poor Security

As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could lead to timber decay which is then required to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as is possible. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft can indicate wood decay. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation, and determine if repairs to the window sash are needed.

Additionally, with time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window repairs becoming soft to touch. A professional is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any repair of sash windows or replacement.

Triple and double glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise pollution out of your home, sash window repair and it could be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it in. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be at risk and the sash window will have to be replaced.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the cord snapping or an issue with the sash's rattles. If the issue is with the sash's ratchets, a little gentle persuasion will usually work.

This problem can be resolved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal can then be placed around the staff bead to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and also reduce the risk of draughts.