20 Fun Facts About Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam searches the internet for salvaged, wavy glass and keep an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then looks for replacements, such as nuts or washers, to ensure that her window is balanced.

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 costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double-hung windows get stuck.  Salford double glazing repair  in the event of an icy storm, and you'll lose your view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external air and noise in, and your energy bills could increase. Both of these scenarios are not optimal but they can be rectified by using the proper tools and perseverance.

A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint may build up in the channels they slide over, causing them blockage. Luckily, most issues with this can be resolved by cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Then scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Use a sharp knife and place sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth gliding. The lubricant can be found in a majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be a problem with the sash cord. Check to see whether the cord is catching or hanging in the sash, or has snapped completely. You'll need to re-cord your window if this is the situation.

A pin that keeps the rail in place might have been ripped out. It isn't easy to fix and you'll have to call a professional the majority times.

If a pin isn't falling out but the wood has become warped or swollen, it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. The liquid is quick drying and can repair damaged wood. You won't have remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you can take apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with sash windows that are old particularly in the winter. Most often, they are caused by decayed timbers, cracked putty, worn sash cords or unbalanced weights which can let cold air seep in around the window, making it difficult to keep your home warm. There are several ways to help prevent draughts in your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or using strips to prevent draughts. These can purchase at many hardware stores. These are effective however, you will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to the size you require and then insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This option is quite costly and must be reapplied over the duration of your window's life, but it can provide a long-term solution and is easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to block draughts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught blocker, but the drawback is that it could hinder sash movement completely and may be an hazard to fire. The sash must be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm will need reapplied every time the sash is closed.

A more cost-effective solution 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 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 will help restore the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, in addition to dealing with any minor timber defects. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal efficiency.

Decay

The good thing is that your windows' sash frames aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or deteriorated. The timber used in the frames of these windows is typically of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide the best performance for many years. Regular inspections are key in ensuring that the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent the build-up of moisture that could lead to wood rot.

The majority of issues that arise with sash windows are easily apparent, however some are more difficult to spot. In particular, wood decay is a difficult problem to address because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber but the best way to avoid further decay is to ensure that the timber is dry.

First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail could require removal from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights will need to be removed. You may require 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. Once the filler is dry, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash's weights inside the window, too to ensure that they are in balance and not swaying one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash is liable to slide off its track and cause damage to the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the window frame.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements, and are prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window, or the frame turning soft to touch. It is crucial to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Additionally, with time, the bottom rails can be damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window that is soft to the touch may be a sign of this. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise out of the home, and it could be a major cause of worry when they begin to let it in. If this happens, the structural integrity may be at stake and the sash windows will need to be replaced.

A common sash window repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped sash cord, or it could be a sign of a problem with the sash's or ratchets. If the problem is related to the sash rats, a bit of gentle pressure is usually enough.

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