15 Reasons Not To Ignore Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and even break. Pam browses the internet for salvaged wavy glasses and keeps an eye out for discarded sashweights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, like washers or nuts, to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam will lay each pane by putting an edging rope into the rabbet groove, or pocket around the opening. This helps to reduce drafts and costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

If your double glazing repairs-hung window becomes stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. You'll lose sight when they squeak during a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will let external air and noise in, and your energy bills can increase. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both could be addressed with the right tools and a little perseverance.

Paint can build up 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 that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has been accumulating. Make sure you employ a sharp blade and set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

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

If it continues to stop, the sash cable may be defective. Verify whether the cord is stuck or hanging in the sash or snapped. If this is the case, you'll have to reconnect the window.

Another reason for a jam is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll require the help of a professional most of the time.

Make use of a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and warped, but there's not a pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, and you'll be able to fix your window without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you'll be able to break the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with the tool.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly in winter months. They are usually caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to warm your home. You can prevent drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or using draught-excluding strips found in many hardware stores. These are effective however, you will need to replace them periodically because the foam expands with usage.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used by itself or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This is a bit costly and will need to be applied over the duration of your window's lifespan, but it is an option for the long term and is easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply roll it up and then insert it into the gaps around your window. This is a reliable draught stopper, but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and pose risky for fire. The sash needs to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This can include new sash cords as well as staff beads, parting beads, lubrication for the pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, and staining or Window Repair painting the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the function of the sash and increase its energy efficiency, while also addressing any minor timber imperfections. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and can help reduce drafts, enhance the thermal performance, and drastically reduce the cost.

Decay

The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't in need of repair if they've been damaged or deteriorated. The frames of these windows are typically constructed from high-quality timber. If you can restore them properly they can be repaired to ensure high performance for many more years. The key is regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop moisture accumulation, which can cause wood rot.

The majority of the issues you will face with sash windows are easily visible on a close examination, however some are harder to spot. In particular, wood decay is a difficult issue to address because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair damaged sections of timber however the best way to avoid further rot is to make sure the timber is 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 position of the sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side, which permit access to the weights, must be removed. You may require a sharp knife to remove them if they are attached by nails or paint. Once the pockets are removed you can begin to chisel out any wood rot and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. Once the wood filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to check inside the window for weights of the sash to ensure that they are balanced. They shouldn't be misaligned, or pulling one side more than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones or install an updated balancing system to prevent the sash from swinging the wrong direction.

Poor Security

Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of the timber, which requires replacement. Water marks on the window or a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation, and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.

Similarly, over time the bottom rails can be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to touch. A professional consultation will also be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any needed replacement or resealing of window sash components.

Double and triple glazed Sash windows do a fantastic job of keeping noise pollution from entering your home, and it could be a cause for concern when they start to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity could be at risk and the sash windows will have to be replaced.

A common sash window Door repair problem is the sash becoming stuck in the frame. This could be caused by an untidy cord or an issue with the sash's the ratchets. If it is the latter, then a bit of gentle persuasion can usually help the window to open and then the ratchets will need to be reset.

Removal of the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often assist in resolving this problem. Once the tracks are clean take off any security fittings that may be present, and then taking off the sash cords and chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead may be sealed with an draught-proof seal in order to minimize draughts. This will also improve the finish of paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and also reduce the risk of draughts.