Notes

14 Common Misconceptions About Sash Window Repair
Sash Window Repair

Sash windows could be out of balance, or even break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then looks for replacements, such as nuts or washers to balance her window.

Pam will bed each pane by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes


It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll rattle during an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. On the other side, a window that's too loose can let outside air and noise through and your energy bills could increase. Both scenarios are not optimal, but they can be rectified by using the proper tools and perseverance.

A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint may build up in the channels that they slide on, making them jam. Fortunately, most issues related to this can be solved by cleaning and lubricating 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. Then scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make sure to use a sharp blade, and then set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant to aid in their smoother movement. You can find this in most home improvement stores, or on the internet. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam the sash cable could be defective. Check to see whether the cord is stuck or hanging in the sash or if it's snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the window.

Another possible reason for the jam could be that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. It isn't easy to fix and you'll need to call in a professional most often.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, so you'll be able repair your window sash without having to remove it completely. Once you've used it, you should be able to break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly with an Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems when you have an old sash window particularly in the winter. They are usually caused by decaying wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This allows cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are found in many hardware stores. They are efficient, but they will require replacing them regularly as the foam expands with use.

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'll need to apply it again over the life of your window. But, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash must be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm must be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete refurbishment it is possible to have your window draught-proofed professionally. This could include the replacement of sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This will restore the sash to its original function and improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor flaws in the timber. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts and improve your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The frames of these windows are usually constructed of high-quality wood. If window repairs Loughton can restore them properly, they can be restored to give you the best 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 decay.

Most of the problems 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 repair, since fungus eats the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however the best way to avoid further rot is to make sure the timber is dry.

The first step is to strip any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail could have to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights, will need to be removed. You may require a sharp knife to remove them if they're fixed or painted. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to remove any wood rot, and apply a good quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler is dry, a coat of primer should be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a smart idea to check inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are properly balanced. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side harder than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to drop off its track and cause damage to the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to damage and wear from weather and wear over time. Over time, this can lead to timber decay which requires to be replaced - costly repair that needs to be dealt with as soon as is possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks beneath the window or by the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary repair work to the sash window.

Similarly, over time the bottom rails can be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window that is soft to the touch may be an indication of this. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of window sash components.

It is a major concern when triple or double windows are glazed and start to allow noise pollution back into the house. If this happens the structural integrity of windows could be in danger and is likely to need to be replaced with a different option.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped cord or a problem with sash rattles. If the latter is the case, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window to open to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

The sash should be removed from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust can help resolve this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead can be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and also reduce the risk of draughts.

Website: https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/loughton-windowrepair/