Notes

The Largest Issue That Comes With Sash Window Repair, And How You Can Solve It
Sash Window Repair

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

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

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows get stuck. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak during a storm. A window that is too loose can let in external noise and air, which will increase your energy costs. Neither scenario is ideal, but both can be fixed with the proper tools and determination.

A common issue with old windows that are weighted is that paint may get sucked into the channels they slide on, making them jam. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Begin by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape off any accumulated paint. Make use of a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better sliding. It is available in many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be due to an issue with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If window repair is the case, you'll have to reconnect the window.

A pin that holds the rail in place might have been ripped out. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to contact an expert in the majority of cases.

Use a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and swollen, but there's no pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, and you'll be able to fix your window sash without having to remove it completely. After using it, you can pull off the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a major issue for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They can be caused by decaying wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can prevent draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they'll need to be replaced regularly as the foam expands and wears away with time.


Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution. It's a spongy, rubbbery seal you can cut and then push into 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 expensive and you will need to apply it several times throughout the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is easy to remove.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it and then push it into the gaps surrounding your window. This is a great draught-stopper however it could also hinder the sash's movement and cause a fire. Additionally the sash needs to be removed to open the window again and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.

As part of a complete refurbishment, you can have your window draught-proofed professionally. This may include the fitting of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include 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 addressing any minor timber imperfections. It is less disruptive than removing the windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The timber used in the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer 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 the accumulation of moisture that can cause wood rot.

Most of the problems you'll encounter with sash windows are evident upon close examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to stop further decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail may require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood that are located on the sides of the frame lower down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These are often put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you'll likely need to use a knife to cut them out of the way. 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. After the wood filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be misaligned or pulled one side more than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be installed to stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and damage from the weather over time. In time, this may lead to timber decay which is then required to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Water marks under the window or on a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. A professional consultation is needed to assess the situation and recommend any needed repairs to the sash window.

In time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. The sill may show water marks, or a window that is soft to the touch may indicate this. A professional is required to assess the situation, and recommend any resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

Double and triple-glazed sash windows do an amazing job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, so it can be a real cause for worry when they begin to let it back in. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at stake and the sash window will require replacement.

A common problem with repairing sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the cord snapping or problems with sash ratchets. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle pressure can help the window to be opened again - or alternatively, the ratchets need to be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of dust or dirt can often assist in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and carefully remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal that will reduce the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and the sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.

Read More: http://www.stes.tyc.edu.tw/xoops/modules/profile/userinfo.php?uid=1139389