An EasyToFollow Guide To Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can go out of balance and break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements, like washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
If your double-hung windows get stuck, it's a nightmare. They'll be difficult to see when they squeak in a storm. A window that's too loose can let air and noise in which could increase your energy costs. Both scenarios are not optimal, but they can be corrected by using the proper tools and persistence.
Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to jam. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Begin by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape away any paint that's built up. Make sure you employ a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for better sliding. You can purchase this in many home improvement stores or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to stop the sash cable could be defective. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the window's cord.
Another reason for the jam could be that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you will have to call an expert most of the time.
If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has become warped or swollen it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your window sash without needing to remove it completely. Once you've used it, you'll be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using a tool.
Draughts
Draughts can be a concern when you have an old sash window particularly in winter. They are often caused by decaying wood, cracked putty, or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can stop drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are available at most hardware shops. They are efficient however you'll require replacing them regularly because the foam expands with usage.
Gapseal is a longer-lasting solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbly seal that can be cut and then push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is costly and you'll have to apply it again throughout the life of your window. However, it is an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.
Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply roll it up and then push it into all the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can stop sash movement completely and could pose risky for fire. In addition, the sash will need to be removed to re-open the door and the cling film has to be applied every time you close the sash.
An alternative that is less expensive is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve painting or staining of the frames and the sashes. This could restore the sash to its original purpose, improve its energy efficiency and fix any minor imperfections in the timber. It is less disruptive than removing windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.
Decay
The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are generally constructed of high-quality wood. With the proper restoration they can be rehabilitated to ensure high performance for many more years. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop moisture accumulation, which can cause wood decay.
The majority of the issues you'll face with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is a challenge to fix, as fungus eats the wood. While it is possible to repair wood that is rotten, the best way to avoid further decay is to keep the timber dry.
The first thing to do is to remove any paint from the hardware. It may be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame and the rail for meeting (this will depend on the location of the sash). You will then need to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides of the frame lower down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). You may need to use a sharp knife to take the pockets if they're fixed or painted. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to remove any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.
It is a good idea to check inside the window the weights of the sash to ensure that they are in balance. They should not be displaced or pulled one side more strongly than the other . If they're not balanced, the sash could drop off its track and break or damage the frame. You can replace the sashweights using new ones or install an updated balancing system to stop the sash from swinging in the wrong direction.
Poor Security
As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements, and are prone to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, and requires replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks on the window or the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any required sash window repair work.
In the same way, over 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 will be required to assess the situation, and recommend any needed resealing of sash windows components or replacement.
Triple and double glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise pollution out of your home, but it can be a real cause for concern when they start to let it in. If this occurs, the structural integrity may be at risk and the sash window will have to be replaced.
A common problem with repairing sash windows is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This could be caused by the cord snapping or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If it is the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window open again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.
This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean remove any security fittings that could be present. Lastly, carefully taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using an draught-proof seal in order to minimize draughts. This can also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.