An EasyToFollow Guide To Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can get out of balance and break. Pam is on the lookout on the internet for salvaged wavy glasses, and keeps an eye open for discarded metal sashweights. She then searches for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to ensure that her window is balanced.
Pam will lay each pane by putting a rope of glazing material into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.
Sticking Sashes
If your double-hung window becomes stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll sway in the event of storms and you'll lose your view. On the other side, a window that's too loose will allow external noise and air in, and your energy bills could increase. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both could be addressed with the right tools and a little perseverance.
A common issue with old windows that are weighted is that paint could accumulate in the channels they slide over, causing them blockage. Most of these problems can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Begin by removing the caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Scrape away any paint that has accumulated. Make sure to use a sharp blade, and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner directly below to contain any paint dust and chips.
Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better gliding. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or online. Then move the sash up or down to test it.
If it continues to jam, the sash cable may be faulty. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or if it's snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window in the event of this.
Another possible cause of a jam is the pin that holds the rail in place has slipped out. It isn't easy to fix and you will require the help of a professional the majority of the time.
If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped it's recommended to apply a wood hardener to it. It's a quick 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 you've used 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 major issue for old sash windows particularly in winter months. They are often caused by rotten wood cracks, cracked putty, deteriorated sash cords or unbalanced weights that allow cold air to seep into the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are available at most hardware shops. These can be effective, although they will need to be replaced periodically as the foam expands and wears away with time.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a spongy rubbbery seal that can be cut to the size you require and then put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This is costly and you'll have to apply it again over the life of your window. However, it's an affordable fix that is simple to remove.
Cling film can also be used to block drafts. Simply roll it up and push it into all the gaps surrounding your window. This is a good draught-stopper however it could also block the sash's movement and cause a fire. In addition the sash needs to be removed to open the window again and the cling film will need to be applied each time you close the sash.
As part of a general refurbishment you can have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This could include the installation of new sash strings, parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the lubrication and rebalancing the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This will restore the sash to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency and fix any minor imperfections in the wood. It is much less disruptive than replacing the windows entirely and can significantly reduce draughts as well as improve your home's thermal performance.
Decay
The good thing is that your windows' sash frames aren't damaged beyond repair even if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. With the right restoration they can be rehabilitated to ensure high performance for many years to come. Regular inspections are essential and so is making sure the wood is properly ventilated. This will help prevent the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood rot.
Most of the problems you will face with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult problem to address because fungus can eat away at the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, but the best way to avoid further rot is to make sure the timber is dry.
First, clean any paint from the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the position of the sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's sides that permit access to the weights will need to be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to take the pockets if they're painted or nailed into place. Once the pockets are gone, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to protect against further decay.
It is a smart idea to examine inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They should not be displaced or pulled one side more strongly than the other. The sash could fall off its track if it is not balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or even be damaged. You can replace the sashweights with new ones, or install an entirely new balance system to prevent the sash from moving the wrong direction.
Poor Security
Sash windows are susceptible to wear and damage due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Wood decay can be spotted by water marks beneath the window, or the frame becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary repairs to the sash window.
In the same way, over time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. This can be seen by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional consultation will be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary repair or replacement of sash window components.
It can be very concerning when double and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If this happens the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash windows will need to be replaced.
A typical sash repair issue is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped cord or a problem with sash rattles. If the issue is with the sash the ratchets, some gentle persuasion will usually work.
Removing the sash from the frame and removing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often assist in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. window repair can be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will enhance the operation of the sash and also reduce draughts.