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

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and is always looking for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then searches for replacements, like washers or nuts to balance her window.

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

Sticking Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll shake during a storm and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose could let in external noise and air which can increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not optimal, but they can be fixed by using the proper tools and persistence.

One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint may get sucked into the channels that they slide on, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be solved 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. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Be sure to use a sharp blade, and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant that will aid in their smoother movement. This lubricant is sold at most home improvement shops or on the internet. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be faulty. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. You'll have to re-cord your window If this is the case.

Another reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to contact an expert in the majority of instances.

You can use a wood softener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary remove your sash windows to repair them. After you've used it, you can pull apart the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with sash windows that are old particularly in winter. They are often caused by rotten wood or cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can let cold air seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips found in many hardware stores. These can be efficient, but they will need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will need to be reapplied throughout the course of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is easy to take off when you wish to open the window.

Another popular DIY solution to stop drafts is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts, but it can also hinder the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash must be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a comprehensive overhaul it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the timber. It's less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts as well as improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are usually constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration, they can be restored to ensure high performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop the accumulation of moisture which can cause wood to rot.

The majority of issues that you'll face with sash windows are easily visible on a close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is a challenge to treat, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to door repair rotten sections of timber, but the best way to stop further decay is to ensure the timber is dry.

The first step is to clean 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 on the frame's side, which permit access to the weights must be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife to take the pockets if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood that is rotting, and window repairs then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash weights within the window, too, to ensure that they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to break or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that is then required to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be addressed as soon as possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks beneath the window, or the frame turning soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

As time passes, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional will be required to examine the situation and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

It can be very concerning when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens, the structural integrity of windows could be in danger and is likely to need to be replaced with an alternative option.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the sash cord being snapped, or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash ratchets. If the issue is with the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead can be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the possibility of draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can then be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.