14 Misconceptions Common To 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 keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements, like nuts or washers, to help balance her window.

Pam will lay each pane by putting the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

When your double-hung window repairs gets stuck and shatters, it's an absolute nightmare. They'll shake during a storm and you'll lose your view. A window that's too loose could let in air and noise which could increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios are not optimal but they can be rectified by using the right tools and persistence.

Paint can build up on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, causing them to become jammed. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Use a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.

Then, clean the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth glide. You can find this in most home improvement stores, or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to stop, the sash cable may be defective. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If this is the situation, you'll need to re-cord the window.

A pin that holds the rail in place may have fallen out. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to call a professional in most instances.

If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has become swollen or warped, it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to fix your window without needing to remove it completely. After you've used it you should be able to remove the two sashes by placing a block of wood on the top of the corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using the hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. Often caused by rotten timbers, cracked putty, worn weights for sash or sash cords that aren't balanced that let cold air seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. There are a few options you can take to prevent draughts from entering your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with foam that expands or draught excluder strips that you can buy at most hardware stores. These are efficient, but they'll need to be replaced from time to time as the foam expands and wears away with use.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy rubbly seal that can be cut and push in the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This is a bit costly and will need to be reapplied throughout the time of your windows' life, but it can provide a long-term solution and is easy to remove in the event that you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and pushed 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 pose a fire hazard. The sash needs to be removed to open the window and the clingfilm must be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your sash windows professionally draught proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This can include the installation of new sash string, staff beads and window repairs parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This could restore the sash to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and correct any minor imperfections in the wood. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and will reduce draughts, improve the thermal efficiency and dramatically 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 frames of these windows are usually made of high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to provide high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are essential and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will prevent the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood rot.

The majority of the issues that you'll face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Particularly, wood decay is a very difficult problem to treat because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, but the best way to prevent future decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.

First, remove any paint from the hardware. It is possible 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, which permit access to the weights must be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife for removing them if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel away any wood rot and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried a coat of primer should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to check inside the window for sashweights to make sure they are properly balanced. They should not be in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash can slide off the track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to break or become damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Over time sash windows become exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, which requires replacement. Water marks under the window or a frame that is soft can indicate wood decay. It is important to consult an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Over time the rails at the bottom can also be damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill, or the window becoming soft. A professional will be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

Double and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise pollution out of the home, so it can be a real cause for worry if they begin to let it back in. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash window may require replacement.

A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or problems with sash rattles. If it is the latter scenario, a little gentle persuasion can usually help the window open and then the ratchets must be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead can be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the risk of draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. The gap between the box and the sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce draughts.