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20 Tools That Will Make You More Efficient At Sash Window Repair
Sash Window Repair

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

Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, that is around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows are stuck. They'll sway in the event of an icy storm and you'll lose view. A window that's too loose can let in external noise and air which can increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both can be solved with the proper tools and determination.

A common problem with old windows that are weighted is that paint could get sucked into the channels that they slide on, causing them jam. Fortunately, most issues related to 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. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make sure you employ a sharp blade and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.

Then, wipe window repairs near me with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure more smooth sliding. The lubricant can be found in a majority of home improvement stores or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it is still jamming, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped off completely. You'll have to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

Another possible cause of the jam could be the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped away. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to contact an expert in the majority of instances.

You can use a wood softener when the wood is swelling and warped but there's no pin. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to fix your window sash without having to remove it completely. Once you've used it, you'll be able to remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using the hammer.

Draughts


Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights, or sash cords that are not balanced that allow cold air to get into the window, making 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 can be very effective, but they'll have to be replaced from time to time because the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to the desired size and then put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This is costly and you'll have to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. But, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper but the downside is that it could block sash travel completely and may be risky for fire. In addition the sash needs to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film needs to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a general refurbishment you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include the installation of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This could restore the sash to its original function and increase its energy efficiency, and repair any minor imperfections in the wood. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The wood used in the frames of these windows is generally of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to provide an excellent level of performance for many years. The key is regularly checking the frames and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid moisture accumulation which can cause wood rot.

The majority of problems with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is particularly difficult to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. Although it is possible to repair rotten timber however the best method to avoid future rot is by keeping the wood dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the location of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights will need to be removed. You may require a sharp knife to remove the pockets if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.

It is recommended to inspect the sash's weights inside the window as well to make sure they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could slide off its track and break or damage the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing could be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. In time, this may cause wood decay, which in turn will need to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as is possible. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any necessary sash window repair work.

Additionally, with time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

It can be very concerning when triple or double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into your home. If this is happening the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk, and they will most likely require to be replaced by a different option.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by the sash cord being snapped, or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash's the ratchets. If it's the latter the gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

This issue can be fixed by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and carefully remove the sash cords or chains. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce the risk of draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.

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