9 Signs That You're An Expert Sash Window Repair Expert

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and even break. Pam searches the web for sash Window repair salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements, such as washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, or pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows become stuck. You'll lose your view if they rattle in a storm. A window that is too loose may allow in external noise and air, which will increase your energy costs. Neither scenario is optimal, but both can be fixed with the proper tools and determination.

One of the most common issues with windows with weighted sash is that paint can get sucked into the channels that they slide on, making them blockage. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating 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's built up. Be sure to use a sharp blade, and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will help them slide better. This lubricant is available at many 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 tangled or hanging in the sash or snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

Another possible reason for a jam is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you will require the help of a professional the majority of the time.

Use a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair your window without having to take it off completely. After you've used it you'll be able to break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the top of the corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with a hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a problem with old sash window, especially during the winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can allow cold air to get into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing 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 as the foam expands and gets worn away with use.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy, rubbbery seal you can cut and then push into the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is expensive and you'll need to reapply it over the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and put into every gap around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the movement of the sash and possibly cause fire. The sash needs to be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm will need to be applied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a general refurbishment you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the replacement of sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining 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's less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The wood used in the frames of these windows is generally of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. The key is regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture accumulation, which can cause wood rot.

Most of the problems that you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber but the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure that the timber is kept dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the position of the sash). You will then need to take off the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame lower down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These can sometimes be nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to get them off. Once the pockets are removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried the primer must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to examine inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They shouldn't be in the wrong alignment or pulled one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash is liable to fall off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong way.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. In time, this may lead to timber decay which in turn will need to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be addressed as soon as is possible. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft can indicate wood decay. It is essential to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if sash window repairs are necessary.

In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft. A professional consultation will also be required to determine the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of window sash components.

It can be very concerning when repairing double glazed windows and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into the home. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at risk and the sash window may have to be replaced.

A typical window repair issue for sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If it's the latter the gentle persuasion can usually help the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

Removing the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust can help resolve this issue. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that could be present, and then removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal that will reduce the risk of draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve the operation of the sash and decrease the risk of draughts.