Notes

This Is The Advanced Guide To Sash Window Repair
Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then looks for replacements, such as washers or nuts, to balance her window.

Pam will set 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.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck, it's a nightmare. You'll lose sight in the event that they shake during a thunderstorm. A window that's too loose may allow in external noise and air which can increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal however they can be fixed by using the appropriate tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint may build up in the channels they slide on, making them blockage. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Take the caulking off of the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape away any accumulated paint. Make use of a sharp knife and put plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.


Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth sliding. It is available at the majority of home improvement stores or online. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam it could be a problem with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the window's cord.

Another possible reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. It can be difficult to fix and you will require the help of a professional the majority often.

If a pin doesn't fall out but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea to use a wood softener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, and you'll be able repair your window without having to remove it completely. Once you've used it, you should be able to 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 tool.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with old sash window particularly in the winter. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced that allow cold air to get in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several things you can do to help prevent draughts in your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with foam that expands or strips to block draughts that you can buy at most hardware stores. They are efficient however, you will require replacement periodically as the foam expands with use.

Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and then push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and will have to be applied over the duration of your window's life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is easy to remove if you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts, but it can also hinder the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. The sash must be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm will need to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This can include new sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber imperfections. It is less disruptive than removing the windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are generally made of high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be repaired to give you the best performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are key 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 will encounter with sash windows will be easily visible on a close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to repair, since the fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible to repair wood that is rotten, the best way to avoid future decay is to keep the wood dry.

First, remove window repairs near me from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, should be removed. They can be fixed by nailing them in place and then securing them with paint, so you'll probably need to use a knife to get them off. Once the pockets have been removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.

It is a smart idea to inspect inside the window for sashweights to make sure they are properly balanced. They should not be misaligned, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash may slide off the track if they aren't properly balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or even be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, and will require replacement. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation, and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.

In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch may be a sign of this. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.

It is a major concern when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this occurs the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash windows will require replacement.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or a problem with sash rattles. If the issue is with the sash's ratchets, a little gentle pressure is usually enough.

Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of dirt or dust can help resolve this issue. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal could be put on the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and decrease the possibility of draughts.

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