20 Fun Infographics About Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance or even break. Pam browses the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, like 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, or pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck, it's a nightmare. You'll lose sight in the event that they shake in a storm. A window that is too loose can let in external noise and air which could increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be solved with the proper tools and determination.

A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint may get sucked into the channels they slide on, making them jam. Most of these problems can be resolved 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 built up. Make use of a sharp knife, and place sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam the sash cable could be defective. Check to see whether the cord is stuck or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

Another possible reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It isn't easy to fix and you'll have to call a professional the majority times.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's a good idea to apply a wood hardener to it. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, which means you'll be able to fix your sash window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you can take apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the bottom 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. They can be caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips that are available in most hardware stores. They're effective however you'll require replacement periodically because the foam expands with usage.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is costly and you'll need to reapply it over the life of your window. However, it is a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. Additionally the sash needs to be removed to re-open the upvc door repairs near me and the cling film needs to be applied every time you close the sash.

A better option is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include the replacement of sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and correct any minor flaws in the wood. It is less disruptive than removing windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The timber used in the frames of these windows is usually of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide the best performance for many years. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can lead to wood decay.

The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily visible, but others are more difficult to detect. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to fix because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber but the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure that the timber is dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the location of the sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame that are low down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife for removing them if they are fixed or painted. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel away any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler is dry the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash's weights inside the window, too, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong way.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. In time, this may cause wood decay, which 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 on the window, or the frame turning soft to touch. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

Similarly, over time the rails at the bottom may become damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will also be required to assess the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of window sash components.

It is a major concern when triple or double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into your home. If this is happening, the structural integrity of windows' sash could be at risk, and they is likely to need to be replaced by a different option.

A common window repair issue for sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped cord or an issue with the sash's ratchets. If it's the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open and then the ratchets will need to be reset.

The sash should be removed from the frame and removing the tracks of dust or dirt can often assist in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the sash cords or chains. 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 decrease draughts.