10 Misconceptions That Your Boss May Have About Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements, such as nuts or washers to help balance her window.

Pam will lay 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.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows get stuck. You'll lose your view in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. A window that's too loose can let in external noise and air, which will increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal but they can be fixed by using the right tools and perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make use of a sharp knife, and place plastic sheets and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is sold in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it still jams, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the window's cord.

Another reason for the jam could be the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. It can be difficult to fix, and you'll need to contact a professional in most cases.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea apply a wood hardener to it. This liquid will dry quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you can take apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. They are usually caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. These are effective, but they will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that you cut to size and put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll have to apply it several times over the course of the life of your window. However, it's an effective long-term fix and 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 reliable draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could block sash travel completely and pose an hazard to fire. In addition the sash needs to be removed for you to open the window again and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash strings, staff beads and Sash Window Repair parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also fixing any minor wood imperfections. It is less disruptive than removing windows and will reduce draughts, improve thermal performance and significantly reduce the cost.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are generally constructed of high-quality wood. With the proper restoration they can be rehabilitated to give you the best performance for many more years. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues that arise with sash window are easily evident, but some are more difficult to detect. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to address because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure that the timber is dry.

The first step is to strip any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail could require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights must be removed. You may need 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 chisel out any wood rot, and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler is dry the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to examine inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are balanced. They shouldn't be in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash can slide off the track if it is not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging in the wrong way.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can cause decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Water marks on the window or 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.

In the same way, over time, the bottom rails can be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch may be an indication of this. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any needed repair timber windows or replacement of sash window components.

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

A typical problem with repairing sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be caused by a snapped sash cord or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash the ratchets. If the issue is related to the sash rats, a bit of gentle pressure is usually enough.

This issue can be solved by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that may be present and then carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the risk of draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and lessen the risk of draughts.