10 Myths Your Boss Is Spreading Regarding Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and crack. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and is always looking for discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for replacements, like washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove, or pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll rattle during storms, and you'll lose your view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external noise and air in, and your energy bills may increase. Neither scenario is optimal, but both can be addressed with the proper tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint can get sucked into the channels that they slide on, causing them jam. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the upvc window repairs 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 a dust-collecting vacuum cleaner below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, then apply an oil based on silicone to aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it is still jamming, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. You'll need to re-cord your window in the event of this.

Another possible reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in most cases.

You can use a wood softener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. It's a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, and you'll be able repair your window without having to take it off completely. After using it, you can pry apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with old sash window, especially during the winter. They can be caused by decayed wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This allows cold air to get inside the window, making it difficult to warm your home. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. They're effective, but they will 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 push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll need to apply it several times over the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it and then push it into the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and may be a fire hazard. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm needs to be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a general overhaul, you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the installation of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can restore the sash to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency and fix any minor flaws in the timber. It is less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent the accumulation of moisture, which can cause wood to rot.

The majority of issues you'll encounter with sash windows are easily visible on a close inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult problem to treat because fungus can eat away at the wood. Although it is possible to repair damaged timber, the best way to prevent further decay is to keep the wood dry.

First, remove any paint from 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 on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, should be removed. They can be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to get them loose. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out 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 prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to inspect inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They should not be displaced or pulled one side harder than the other. The sash may fall off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism could be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. Over time, this can result in wood decay that in turn will need to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be addressed as quickly as is possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window or by the frame becoming soft to touch. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation, and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.

In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window that is soft to the touch could indicate this. A professional consultation will be required to determine the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of sash window components.

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 could be at risk and the sash window may need to be replaced.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the sash cord being snapped or a sign of a problem with the sash's ratchets. If the issue is with the sash's ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

This problem can be resolved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean remove any security fittings that may be present, and then removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal that will reduce the risk of draughts. This can also improve the finish of the paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and also reduce the possibility of draughts.