Then You've Found Your Sash Window Repair ... Now What?

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, like nuts or washers, to help balance her window.

Pam will set each pan by putting the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll shake during an icy storm and you'll lose view. A window that is too loose may allow in air and noise which could increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal however they can be corrected with the right tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old windows with weighted sash is that paint could get sucked into the channels they slide on, making them jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Be sure to make use of a sharp blade and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant to make them more gliding. It is available at most home improvement stores, or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it is still jamming it could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or has snapped completely. You'll have to re-cord your window in the event of this.

Another reason for the jam could be that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in most instances.

Use a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and swollen, but there's no pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to repair your window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you can pull apart 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 old sash windows, especially in the winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can allow cold air to seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or using draught-excluding strips found in many hardware stores. They can be very efficient, but they'll need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and wears away with use.

Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution. It's a spongy rubbly seal that can be cut and push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll need to apply it again throughout the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling film that is scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a general refurbishment it is possible to have your window draught-proofed. This may include the fitting of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, as well as fixing any minor wood defects. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce draughts, improve thermal performance and Sash window repair significantly reduce costs.

Decay

The good thing is that your sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The wood used in the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.

The majority of the issues you will encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since the fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible repair wood that is rotten, the best way to prevent further rot is by keeping the wood 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" that 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 down the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife to take them if they are painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to remove any wood that is rotting, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, a coat of primer should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights within the window, too to ensure that they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could fall off its track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to break or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install a new balancing system to stop the sash from moving the wrong way.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to damage from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that requires to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. Water marks on the window or a frame that is soft could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation will be needed to assess the situation and recommend any necessary repairs to the sash window.

Over time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window that is soft to the touch may be an indication of this. A professional is required to assess the situation, and recommend any needed replacement of the sash window's seal or Sash Window Repair replacement.

Double and triple glazed sash windows do an amazing job of keeping noise pollution out of the home, and it could be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it in. If this is happening the structural integrity of the sash windows repair may be at risk and it will most likely require to be replaced by a different option.

One common sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or problems with sash rattles. If it is the latter the gentle pressure can help the window open and then the ratchets must be reset.

This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal may be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.