10 Things Everybody Hates About Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and crack. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements in the form of nuts or washers to balance her window.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll rattle in the event of storms, and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will let external air and noise through, and your energy bills could increase. Both scenarios are not optimal, but both can be fixed with the right tools and a little perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to jam. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Be sure to employ a sharp blade and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant to make them more gliding. You can find this at many home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it is still jamming it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Examine if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the window's cord.

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

You can use a wood softener if the wood is swollen and swollen, but there's no pin. This liquid will dry quickly and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary remove the windows on your sash to repair them. After using it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly during winter months. They are usually caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. There are several ways to stop draughts from coming through your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can buy at most hardware stores. These are effective, but they will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands with use.

A more permanent option is Gapseal, a sponge-like seal that you cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips placed on the top and bottom of the frame. This is costly and you'll have to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply scrunch it and push it into all the gaps that surround your window. This is a great draught stopper but the downside is that it could stop sash movement completely and pose a fire hazard. The sash has to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm will need to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

A better option is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This will help restore the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also addressing any minor timber defects. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The wood used in the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and, window repairs with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide the best performance for a long time. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can lead to wood decay.

The majority of problems with sash window are easily visible, but others are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as the fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber however the best method to avoid further decay is to keep the wood dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail might need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood on the side of the frame lower down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife to take them if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot and apply a good quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check inside the window for sashweights to make sure they are properly balanced. They should not be misaligned or pulled one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash could drop off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or install a new balancing system to stop the sash from moving the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to damage and wear from the weather over time. This can cause decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is crucial to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

In time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window that is soft to the touch may be a sign of this. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any needed resealing or replacement of sash window components.

It can be a real concern when triple or double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens, the structural integrity of sash windows may be at risk, and they is likely to need to be replaced with an alternative option.

A typical window repair issue for sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to the cord snapping or an issue with the sash's rattles. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window to be opened and then the ratchets will need to be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that may be present and then carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal may be applied around the staff bead to reduce the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.