15 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Ignore Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance, or even break. Pam is on the lookout on 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 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, around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. You'll lose your view in the event that they shake in a storm. A window that's too loose may allow in air and noise which can increase your energy bills. Both scenarios are not optimal but they can be fixed with the appropriate tools and perseverance.

Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted window tracks, causing them to jam. Luckily, most issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Make sure you use a sharp blade, and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to catch any paint dust and chips.

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply an oil based on silicone to help them slide better. You can purchase this in most home improvement stores, or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash either upwards or downwards.

If it continues to jam it could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll need to reconnect the window.

A pin that keeps the rail in place may have been ripped out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in a professional most often.

If a pin doesn't fall out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. This liquid will dry quickly and can restore damaged wood. It's not necessary remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After you've used it you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using the Hammer.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with old sash window particularly in winter. They are often caused by decaying wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to enter the window, making it difficult to heat your home. You can stop draughts by filling gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. They can be very effective, although they'll have to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and wears away with use.

Gapseal is a more permanent solution. It's a spongy rubbbery seal you can cut and push in the gaps between the window frames of the sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is costly and you'll have to reapply it over the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is easy to remove.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film scrunched up and placed into the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper but the downside is that it could stop sash movement completely and pose a fire hazard. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm must be to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

As part of a general refurbishment, you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads in addition to the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It could also involve painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as dealing with any minor timber imperfections. It is much less disruptive than replacing windows altogether and will significantly reduce drafts and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.

Decay

The good news is that sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or decayed. The timber used to construct the frames of these windows is usually of high-quality and with proper restoration they can be revived to provide the best performance for many years. Regular inspections are essential, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could cause wood rot.

The majority of issues that arise with sash windows are easily evident, but some are more difficult to spot. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult problem to fix because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however, the best method to stop further decay is to ensure that the wood is kept dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail might need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights, must be removed. They can be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will probably need to use an instrument to break them out of the way. Once the pockets are removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, a coat of primer should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a good idea to check inside the window for sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side more than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or become damaged. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be installed that will stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage 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 addressed as soon as possible. Wood decay can be detected by water marks beneath the window or the frame turning soft to the touch. It is important to consult a professional to assess the situation, and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.

In time, the bottom rails may also be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation may be required to assess the situation and recommend any needed repair or replacement of window sash components.

Double and triple-glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise out of your home, but it can be a cause for worry if they begin to read more let it back in. If this happens, the structural integrity of windows could be in danger and will likely need to be replaced with an alternative option.

One common problem with repairing sash windows is that the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This can be due to the sash cord being snapped, or it could be the result of an issue with the sash's ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash the ratchets, some gentle persuasion will usually work.

This problem can be resolved by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the sash cords or chains. A draught seal may be applied around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the box of the sash and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and reduce the risk of draughts.