Notes

10 Myths Your Boss Has Regarding Sash Window Repair
Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam searches the web for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, such as washers or nuts, to help balance her window.

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

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows get stuck. They'll sway during storms and you'll lose view. A window that is too loose may allow in external noise and air which can increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not optimal, but they can be rectified with the proper tools and perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to block. 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 built up. Make sure to employ a sharp blade and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Then, clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for better sliding. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to stop it could be defective. Check to see whether the cord is stuck or hanging from the sash, or if it's snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window in the event of this.

A pin that holds the rail in place could have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you will require the help of a professional most often.

If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen, it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to repair your sash window without having to take it off completely. After you've used it, you can pull apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can allow cold air to get in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several ways to prevent draughts from entering your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can purchase from most hardware stores. These are effective, but they'll have to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and wears away with wear and use.

Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and push in the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be applied by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is expensive and you'll need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper, but it can also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. Additionally the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film will need to be applied every time you close the sash.

As part of a comprehensive refurbishment, you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as dealing with any minor timber defects. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts and improve the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from decay or damage, the good news is they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are usually made of high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be rehabilitated to provide high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can lead to wood decay.

The majority of problems that arise from sash windows are readily apparent, however some are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is particularly difficult to repair, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.


First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights must be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to remove them if they are painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the wood filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to examine inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They should not be misaligned or pulled one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash can fall off its track and cause damage to the frame. You can replace the sashweights by new ones, or put in a new balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong way.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and damage from weather and wear over time. Over time, this can lead to timber decay which in turn will need to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be addressed as soon as possible. Water marks under the window or a softened frame can indicate wood decay. A professional consultation is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary sash window repair work.

As time passes the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window that is soft to the touch may be an indication of this. A professional consultation will also be required to assess the situation and recommend any resealing or replacement of sash window components.

Double and triple glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job at keeping noise pollution from entering your home, and it could be a major cause of concern when they start to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity of windows could be in danger and will most likely require to be replaced with an alternative option.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to an sash cord that has snapped or it could be a sign of an issue with the sash the ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion can usually help the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of dirt or dust will often assist in resolving this issue. Once the tracks are clean, removing any security fittings that may be present and then carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce draughts. This can also improve the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and reduce the possibility of draughts.

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