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15 Shocking Facts About 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 keep an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then seeks replacements, like nuts or washers, to help balance her window.

Pam will bed each pan by placing an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows become stuck. You'll lose your view if they rattle during a storm. A window that is too loose can let in external noise and air which can increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios are not optimal however they can be rectified with the proper tools and perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted window tracks, causing 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 accumulated. Be sure to make use of a sharp blade and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant that will make them more gliding. It is available in many home improvement stores or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Verify whether the cord is tangled or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the case, you'll need to re-cord the window.

Another reason for an obstruction is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It isn't easy to fix and you will require the help of an expert most of the time.


If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can help restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you can take off the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can let cold air seep into the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips found in many hardware stores. These are effective, but they will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with usage.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbly seal that you can cut and then push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is costly and you will need to reapply it throughout the life of your window. However, it is an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is an effective draught stopper, but the drawback is that it could hinder sash movement completely and may be risky for fire. The sash needs to be removed in order to reopen the window and the clingfilm will need reapplied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a comprehensive overhaul it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include new sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can restore the sash to its original function, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor flaws in the wood. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

If your windows with sash have suffered damage or decay the good news is that they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The wood used in the frames of these windows is usually of very high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be restored to offer the best performance for many years. The key is to conduct regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to stop moisture accumulation, which can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues that you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but some are more difficult to detect. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. While it is possible repair wood that is rotten however the best method to prevent further rot is by keeping the wood dry.

The first thing to do is to clean any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary 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" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights should be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to take them if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply an excellent, water-resistant filler. After the wood filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window as well to ensure that they are balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if they aren't balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or be damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted to stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and tear from weather and wear over time. Over time, this can cause wood decay, which requires to be replaced, 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. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

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 the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will also be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed replacement or resealing of the sash window's components.

It is a major concern when triple or double glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash windows will require replacement.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped sash cord or an indication of an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If the problem is with the sash's the ratchets, some gentle pressure is usually enough.

Removal of the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often help resolve this issue. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that could be present, and then removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. A draught seal could be placed around the staff bead to decrease the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk in order to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.

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