Now That You've Purchased Sash Window Repair ... Now What?

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then looks for replacements, such as nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove or pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak during a storm. On the other side, a window repairs; image source, that's too loose will let external air and noise through, and your energy bills could increase. Both scenarios are not ideal however they can be corrected with the proper tools and perseverance.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to block. 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's built up. Make use of a sharp knife, and put sheets of plastic as well as an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. The lubricant can be found in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to block the sash cable could be faulty. Check to see whether the cord is tangled or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window in the event of this.

Another reason for the jam could be that a pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll require the help of a professional the majority often.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's a good idea to use a wood hardener on it. The liquid is quick drying and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to take out the windows on your sash to repair them. After you've used it you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using a Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old, especially in the winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood or cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced which can let cold air seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are found in many hardware stores. They're effective, but they will require replacement periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy, rubbly seal that you can cut and push in 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 fairly expensive and must be reapplied over the course of your windows' lifetime but it does offer an option for the long term and is simple to remove when you wish to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply roll it up and push it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a great way to stop draughts, but it can also hinder the movement of the sash and possibly cause fire. The sash must be removed to open the window and the clingfilm needs to be to be applied every time the sash is closed.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This could restore the sash to its original function, improve its energy efficiency, and repair any minor imperfections in the timber. It's less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts as well as improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

The good news is that sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or decayed. The timber used in the frames of these windows is typically of very high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be revived to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. Regular inspections are crucial and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent moisture build-up that can lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Particularly, wood decay is a very difficult problem to treat because fungus can eat away at the wood. Although it is possible to repair wood that is rotten but the best way to avoid future decay is to keep the timber dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights will need to be removed. You may require a sharp knife to remove them if they're fixed or painted. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove 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 inspect inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They should not be displaced, or pulling one side harder than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash is liable to fall off its track and could break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or install a new balancing system to stop the sash from moving the wrong way.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which requires replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks on the window, or the frame turning soft to touch. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any required sash window repair work.

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

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

A typical problem with repairing sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the sash cord being snapped or it could be an indication of an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If it's the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of any dirt or dust can aid in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the chains or window repairs sash cords. A draught seal can then be put on the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of 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 also reduce the risk of draughts.