10 Reasons Why People Hate Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance, or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for the sash weights that are discarded, made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.

Pam will set each pane by placing a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double glazed window repair-hung windows get stuck. You'll lose sight if they rattle in a storm. A window that is too loose can let in air and noise which can increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal, but they can be fixed by using the right tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint can get sucked into the channels that they slide on, making them jam. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and sash Window Repair 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 away any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth gliding. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to block it could be defective. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or has snapped off completely. It is necessary to re-cord the window If this is the case.

Another reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to consult a professional in most instances.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows to repair them. Once you've used it, you'll be able break the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using an Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems when you have an old sash window particularly in the winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced, they can allow cold air to seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several ways to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or draught excluder strips that you can purchase from most hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that you can cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This is a bit costly and will need to be reapplied throughout the duration of your window's lifetime but it does offer a long-term solution and is simple to remove in the event that you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the movement of the sash and even cause a fire. The sash has to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm needs to be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, and painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will help restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are generally constructed of high-quality wood. If you can restore them properly, they can be restored to provide high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are key and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues that arise from sash windows are readily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to avoid further decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.

The first step is to strip any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). They can be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll probably need to use an instrument to break them off. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood that is rotting, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once 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 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 could drop off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong direction.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. Over time, this can lead to timber decay which is then required to be replaced, an expensive repair that has to be addressed as quickly as 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 will be required to determine the condition and recommend any required sash window repair work.

In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch may be a sign of this. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any repair or replacement of window sash components.

Double and triple-glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise pollution from entering your home, but it can be a major cause of worry if they begin to let it in. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be at stake and the sash windows will require replacement.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes 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 problem is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion will usually work.

Removing the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of any dust or dirt can often assist in resolving this problem. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize the risk of draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and reduce the risk of draughts.