10 Misconceptions Your Boss Shares Regarding Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance or break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for discarded, metal sash weights. She then looks for replacements, like washers or nuts, to balance her window.

Pam will set each pan by putting the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This helps cut drafts and costly heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

It's a nightmare when your double glazed window repairs near me-hung windows become stuck. They'll sway during a storm and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose can let in air and noise, which will increase your energy bills. Both of these scenarios aren't ideal however they can be fixed with the right tools and perseverance.

Paint can accumulate on the channels of the old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to block. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling 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. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and then put up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.

Then, clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth glide. It is available in most home improvement stores, or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be defective. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or if it has snapped off completely. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the window's cord.

Another possible cause of a jam is the pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in the majority of cases.

If a pin hasn't fallen out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea use a wood softener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, which means you'll be able repair your window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you can pry off the two sashes by placing a piece of wood in the bottom corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. They are often caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can allow cold air to seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can stop drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips found in many hardware stores. They're effective, but they will require replacement periodically as the foam expands over time with use.

A more permanent solution is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that can be cut to the size you require and then push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be applied on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This is costly and you'll have to reapply it over the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it up and push it 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 risky for fire. The sash must be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm will need reapplied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a complete refurbishment it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This may include the fitting of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It could also involve staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This can restore the sash to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and correct any minor imperfections in the timber. It is less disruptive than removing windows, and can reduce drafts, enhance thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

The good news is that your sash window frames are not beyond repair if they have been damaged or decayed. The frames of these windows are typically constructed from high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be rehabilitated to ensure high performance for many more years. Regular inspections are crucial, as is ensuring the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood decay.

The majority of issues with sash windows are easily visible, but others are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is difficult to fix, as fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber but the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure the timber is dry.

First, take off any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might require removal from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood on the frame's sides that allow access to the weights, will need to be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife to remove them if they are fixed or painted. Once the pockets have been removed, you can begin chiseling out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, a coat of primer should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window, too to ensure that they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash is liable to fall off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted, which will stop the sashes from swinging towards the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes, sash windows can become exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, which requires replacement. Water marks on the window or on a softened frame can indicate wood decay. It is essential to speak with an expert to assess the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs (for beginners) are necessary.

Over time the rails on the bottom 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 evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of window sash components.

Double and triple-glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise pollution from entering your home, and it could be a major cause of worry when they begin to let it in. If this is happening the structural integrity of the windows' sash could be in danger and is likely to need to be replaced with an alternative option.

A typical sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be due to a snapped sash cord or an indication of an issue with the sash ratchets. If the latter is the case, then a bit of gentle persuasion is usually enough to get the window to open again - or alternatively, the ratchets must be reset.

This issue can be fixed by taking off the sash and cleaning the tracks. Once the tracks are clean remove any security fittings that may be present and then carefully removing the sash cords and chains will allow the sash to be removed. A draught seal may be placed around the staff bead in order to reduce draughts and enhance the appearance of the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.