The Advanced Guide To Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance or break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keep an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.
Pam will lay each pan by placing an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare when your double-hung windows become stuck. They'll sway in the event of an icy storm and you'll lose view. A window that is too loose could let in external noise and air which can increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios are not ideal but they can be corrected by using the right tools and perseverance.
Paint can accumulate on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to become jammed. Most of these problems 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 off any paint that's built up. Make use of a sharp knife, and put sheets of plastic and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, then apply a silicone-based lubricant to help them slide better. This lubricant is available in a majority of home improvement stores or online. Then, you can move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to block the sash cable could be faulty. Check to see whether the cord is stuck or hung in the sash or if it's snapped. You'll need to re-cord your window If this is the case.
A pin that holds the rail in place might have fallen out. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to call an expert in the majority of instances.
Use a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. This liquid will dry quickly and can repair damaged wood. It's not necessary remove your sash windows to repair them. After using it, you can take the two sashes apart by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.
Draughts
Draughts can be a problem with old sash window particularly in the winter. They are often caused by decayed wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. There are a few options you can take to stop draughts from coming through your sash windows, such as filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase from most hardware stores. These are effective however you'll require replacement periodically as the foam expands over time with use.
A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between your 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 need to be reapplied throughout the time of your windows' life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is easy to remove if you want to open the window.
Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it and push it into the gaps that surround your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however it could also hinder the movement of the sash and possibly cause fire. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.
An alternative that is less expensive is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a complete refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords and staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, in addition to staining or painting the frames and sashes. This could bring the sash back to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and fix any minor flaws in the wood. It's less disruptive than removing windows, and can reduce draughts, improve the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.
Decay
The good news is that frames for sash windows aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of high-quality and, with the right restoration, can be restored to offer a high level of performance for many years. The key is regular inspections and making sure that the wood is properly ventilated to avoid the accumulation of moisture, which can cause wood to rot.
Most of the problems you will encounter with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. In particular, wood decay is a difficult issue to fix because fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible to repair rotten timber however the best method to avoid future decay is to keep the timber dry.
First, 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 position of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, must be removed. These are often put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will probably need to use a knife to get them out of the way. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry the primer coat must be applied to prevent further decay.
It is a smart idea to inspect inside the window for sashweights to make sure they are properly balanced. They should not be displaced, or pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash could fall off its track and cause damage to the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balancing mechanism can be installed to stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and damage from the weather over time. This can lead to the decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window or by the frame becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed sash window repair work.
Similarly, over time the bottom rails can be damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch can be a sign of this. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any repair or replacement of window sash components.
Double and triple glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise out of your home, and it could be a major cause of 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 common sash repair problem is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or a problem with sash rattles. If the issue is with the sash the ratchets, some gentle persuasion is often the best solution.
This issue can be fixed by removing the sash and cleaning the tracks. After the tracks have been cleaned, removing any security fittings that could be present, and then removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal may be placed around the staff bead to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to improve the operation of the sash and lessen draughts.