An EasyToFollow Guide To Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair
Sash windows could be out of balance or even break. Pam searches the internet for salvaged waving glass, wavy and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of washers or nuts to balance her window.
Pam will set each pan by placing the glazing material in a rope into the rabbet groove or pocket around the opening. This prevents drafts and costly heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
If your double-hung windows get stuck, it's a nightmare. They'll be difficult to see in the event that they shake during a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external noise and air in and your energy costs can increase. Both scenarios are not ideal, but both can be solved with the proper tools and perseverance.
A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint could get sucked into the channels they slide on, causing them jam. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Remove the old caulking from the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape off any paint that has accumulated. Make use of a sharp knife and place plastic sheets and dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.
You can then clean the tracks with a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant to make them more gliding. You can find this in the majority of home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.
If it continues to block the sash cable could be faulty. Examine if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash or snapped. If this is the situation, you'll need to replace the window's cord.
Another possible cause of the jam could be that a pin that holds the rail in place has fallen out. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to contact a professional in most cases.
If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has become swollen or warped it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. The liquid is quick drying and can help restore damaged wood. You won't have remove the windows on your sash to repair them. Once you've used it, you'll be able to remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly using a tool.
Draughts
Draughts can cause problems with sash windows that are old particularly in winter. They are often caused by decayed wood, cracked putty or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. There are several ways to stop draughts from coming through your windows with sash, for example, filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to prevent draughts. These can buy at most hardware stores. They are efficient however you'll require replacement periodically because the foam expands with use.
Gapseal is a stronger solution that is more permanent. It's a spongy rubbly seal that can be cut and then push into the gaps between the sash window frames. It can be used by itself or in conjunction with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is quite costly and will need to be reapplied over the course of your windows' lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is simple to remove when you wish to open the window.
Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply scrunch it and then insert it into all the gaps around your window. This is an effective draught blocker, but the drawback is that it can hinder sash movement completely and may be risky for fire. Furthermore the sash will have to be removed to re-open the window and the cling film has to be reapplied each time you close the sash.
A better option is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This may include the fitting of new sash strings, staff beads and parting beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include staining or painting of the frames and the sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and fix any minor defects in the timber. It's much less disruptive than replacing windows completely and will dramatically reduce drafts and enhance your home's thermal performance.
Decay
If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is they aren't necessarily damaged beyond repair. The timber used in the frames of these windows is typically of high-quality and, with proper restoration, they can be revived to provide an excellent level of performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to stop moisture build up which can lead to wood decay.
The majority of issues you will face with sash windows are readily apparent on close visual inspection, but some are harder to spot. Particularly, wood decay is a difficult problem to address because fungus eats away at the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, however, the best method to stop further decay is to ensure that the timber is dry.
The first step is to remove any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and meeting rail may have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" which are bits of wood that are located on the sides of the frame low down that allow access to the weights (the parting beads run through the middle of them). You may require a sharp knife to take them if they're attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel away any wood rot, and then apply a high-quality, water-resistant wood filler. Once the filler has dried it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to guard against further decay.
It is recommended to inspect the sash weights inside the window too to make sure they are properly balanced and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash may slide off the track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or be damaged. The sash weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted that will stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Sash windows are vulnerable to wear and damage due to weather conditions over time. This can lead to decay of timber, which will require replacement. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks on the window, or the frame turning soft to touch. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation, and determine if repairs to the sash window are required.
As time passes the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. Water marks on the sill, or a window that is soft to the touch could indicate this. A professional consultation will also be required to assess the situation and recommend any necessary repair or replacement of sash window components.
Double and triple glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise out of the home, so it can be a cause for worry when they begin to let it in. If this occurs the structural integrity could be in danger and the sash windows will require replacement.
A common sash repair problem is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This can be caused by a snapped cord or an issue with the sash's rattles. If the latter is the case, then a bit of gentle persuasion can usually help the window open to reopen. Alternatively, double glazing Streatham must be reset.
Removing the sash from the frame and clearing the tracks of any dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this problem. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. A draught seal may be placed around the staff bead to reduce draughts and improve the appearance of the paint finish. Decorators caulk can be used to fill in the gap between the sash's box and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and also reduce the possibility of draughts.