What's Holding Back The Sash Window Repair Industry?

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and crack. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck in the middle, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll sway during a storm and sash window repair you'll lose view. A window that is too loose could let in air and noise which can increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal but they can be rectified with the appropriate tools and persistence.

A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint may build up in the channels they slide on, making them blockage. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating 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 off any accumulated paint. Use a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for better gliding. This lubricant is available in a majority of home improvement stores or online. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to block, the sash cable may be faulty. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped completely. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.

Another possible cause of a jam is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll have to call a professional the majority of the time.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary remove your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it you'll be able break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using the tool.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. They are usually caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can prevent drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are available at most hardware shops. These are effective however you'll require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that you can cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between your 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 costly and you'll have to apply it again throughout the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film that is scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts, but it can also hinder the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. The sash needs to be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm will need to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete overhaul it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include new sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as addressing any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts as well as improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are generally constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to ensure high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood rot.

Most of the problems you will encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is particularly difficult to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, but the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure that the timber is kept dry.

The first step is to remove any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights should be removed. These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll probably need to use a knife to cut them off. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window as well to ensure that they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could slide off its track and could break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or install an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and Sash Window Repair tear due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation will be required to determine the condition and recommend any necessary sash window repair work.

Additionally, with time, the rails at the bottom may become damaged. The sill may show water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch may be an indication of this. A professional consultation will also be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.

It is a major concern when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the home. If this is happening the structural integrity of the windows could be in danger and will most likely require to be replaced with an alternative option.

A common sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If the problem is with the sash's the ratchets, some gentle persuasion will usually work.

This problem can be resolved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that might be present. Lastly, carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal could be applied around the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.