Why We Our Love For Sash Window Repair (And You Should Too!)

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and is always looking for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then looks for replacements, such as nuts or washers, to balance her window.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, or pocket, which is located around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows get stuck. They'll rattle during an icy storm and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose may allow in air and noise which can increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios are not ideal however they can be corrected with the proper tools and persistence.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint can accumulate in the channels they slide on, causing them jam. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth gliding. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.

If it still jams it could be a problem with the sash cord. Verify whether the cord is tangled or hanging from the sash or snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.

A pin that keeps the rail in place may have fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll need to call in an expert most of the time.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has become warped or swollen, Sash Window Repair it's recommended to use a wood softener on it. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. You won't have remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it, you can take off the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can allow cold air to get into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few ways to prevent draughts from entering your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to prevent draughts. These can buy at most hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they will need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a rubbery spongy seal that can be cut to the desired size and then insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you will need to reapply it throughout the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it up and then insert it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great draught stopper, but the drawback is that it could stop sash movement completely and pose an hazard to fire. In addition the sash needs to be removed to open the window again and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, as well as staining or painting the frames and Sash window repair sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, while also dealing with any minor timber defects. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or decayed. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is generally of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer a high level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood rot.

The majority of issues that you'll encounter with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible repair rotten timber however the best method to avoid future rot is by keeping the timber dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's side that allow access to the weights, must be removed. These are often fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you will likely require a knife to get them off. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window, too, to ensure that they are balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can slide off its track and could break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to damage and wear from the weather over time. This can lead to decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any needed sash window repair work.

As time passes, the bottom rails may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window which is soft to the touch may be a sign of this. A professional will be required to assess the situation, and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

It can be very concerning when triple or double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be at stake and the sash window repairs will require replacement.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or an issue with the sash's rattles. If the issue is with the sash's the ratchets, some gentle persuasion will usually work.

The sash should be removed from the frame and removing the tracks of dirt or dust can aid in resolving this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that may be present and then carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal can then be applied around the staff bead to decrease draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and also reduce the risk of draughts.