Notes

Five Tools That Everyone Within The Sash Window Repair Industry Should Be Using
Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can go out of balance and break. Pam searches the web for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye open for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she uses to create the rabbet groove, or pocket, that is around the opening. This helps cut drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking the advantage

If your double-hung windows get stuck, it's a nightmare. You'll lose your view in the event that they shake during a storm. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external air and noise through and your energy costs can increase. Both scenarios are not ideal but they can be rectified by using the proper tools and perseverance.

A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint could accumulate in the channels that they slide over, causing them jam. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for better gliding. This lubricant is sold at many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

If it continues to stop, the sash cable may be defective. Check to see if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash or snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window if this is the situation.

A pin that keeps the rail in place may have lost its grip. It isn't easy to fix and you will require the help of a professional most times.

Make use of a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and swollen, but there's no pin. This liquid dries quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary to remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you can pull the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with old sash window, especially during the winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can allow cold air to seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. They are efficient, but they will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands over time with usage.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you cut to the desired size and then insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This is a bit costly and will have to be reapplied over the course of your windows' life, but it can provide a long-term solution and is easy to remove if you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to stop draughts. Simply roll it up and then insert it into all the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught stopper but the downside is that it could block sash travel completely and could pose a fire hazard. 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 complete refurbishment it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash string, parting beads and staff beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting the frames and the sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original function, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor imperfections in the timber. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows altogether and will significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal performance.

Decay

The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used in the frames of these windows is typically of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be restored to provide a high level of performance for many years. Regular inspections are essential and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will stop moisture build-up that can lead to wood rot.

Most of the problems you'll face with sash windows are easily visible on a close examination, however some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to fix, as the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, however the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure 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'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood on the side of the frame lower down that give access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to take them if they're attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to remove any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights inside the window too, to ensure that they are properly balanced and not swaying one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash could slide off its track and could break or damage the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted to stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, and will require replacement. Water marks on the window or a frame that is soft could be a sign of decaying wood. It is crucial to speak with an expert to assess the situation and determine if any repairs to the sash window are required.

Over time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch may be an indication of this. A professional will be required to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.


It can be very concerning when triple and double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at stake and the sash window will need to be replaced.

A typical sash window repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the cord snapping or problems with sash rattles. If the issue is with the sash's ratchets, a little gentle persuasion will usually work.

This issue can be solved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned remove any security fittings that could be present, and then removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal to reduce the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and also reduce the possibility of draughts.

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