15 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Ignore Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, such as washers or nuts, to balance her window.

Pam will bed each pan by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double glazed window repairs-hung window becomes stuck, it's a nightmare. You'll lose sight if they rattle during a storm. A window that's too loose could let in air and noise, which will increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal but they can be corrected by using the proper tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint could build up in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be resolved 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 accumulated. Be sure to make use of a sharp blade and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. It is available in most home improvement stores, or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to stop, the sash cable may be defective. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped completely. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have fallen out. This can be tricky to fix, and you'll need to contact a professional in most cases.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's recommended to use a wood softener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, so you'll be able to fix your window without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with old sash window, especially during the winter. They are often caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to seep around the window, making it more 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 that are available in most hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they'll need to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and wears away with wear and use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, which is a rubbery spongy seal that can be cut to the desired size and then insert into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will need to be applied over the course of your windows' lifetime but it does offer an option for the long term and is easy to take off if you want to open the window.

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 reliable draught stopper, but the drawback is that it could hinder sash movement completely and could pose a fire hazard. The sash must be removed to open the window and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

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

Decay

The good news is that your sash window frames are not in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are usually constructed of high-quality wood. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to ensure high performance for many years to come. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent moisture build up which can lead to wood rot.

Most of the problems you will encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus eats the wood. Although it is possible to repair damaged timber, the best way to avoid further rot is by keeping the timber dry.

The first step is to remove any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, will need to be removed. They can be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you will probably need to use an instrument to break them out of the way. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to examine inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are in balance. They shouldn't be in the wrong alignment or pulled one side more strongly than the other. The sash can slide off the track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or sash window repair be damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in an entirely new balance system to stop the sash from moving the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to damage and wear due to weather conditions over time. In time, this may result in wood decay that requires to be replaced, a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as is possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks on the window, or the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any needed repair work to the sash window.

As time passes, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill, or sash Window repair the window becoming soft. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any needed replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

It is a major concern when double and triple windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this is happening the structural integrity of windows could be at risk, and they will likely need to be replaced by a different option.

A typical problem with repairing sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to the cord snapping or problems with sash ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash rats, a bit of gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

Removing the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust can help resolve this problem. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.