10 Things Everybody Hates About Sash Window Repair

Sash Window Repair
Sash windows can be out of balance or even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then searches for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to help balance her window.
Pam beds each pane with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, which is located around the opening. This prevents drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.
Sashes that stick Sashes
It's a nightmare when double-hung windows are stuck. They'll rattle in the event of storms and you'll lose view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will let external noise and air in, and your energy bills could increase. This is neither ideal, but both can be fixed with the right tools and a little determination.
Paint can get splattered on the channels of old weighted window tracks, which can cause them to jam. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.
Begin by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the internal one) and the window frame. Scrape off any paint that has built up. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic as well as dust-collecting vacuum cleaners below the surface to catch any paint dust or chips.
You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant to aid in their smoother movement. It is available at many home improvement stores or online. You can test it by dragging the sash upwards or downwards.
If it continues to jam it could be a problem with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hung in the sash or if it's snapped. You'll have to re-cord your window in the event of this.
Another reason for an obstruction is the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in most cases.
If a pin hasn't fallen out but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's recommended to use a wood hardener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, and you'll be able to fix your window sash without needing to remove it completely. After using it, you'll be able to pry the two sashes apart by placing a block of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet, and tapping it lightly using an Hammer.
Draughts
Draughts can be a major issue for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. Often caused by rotten timbers or cracked putty, worn weights, or sash cords that are not balanced, they can let cold air seep in around the window and make it difficult to keep your home warm. You can prevent drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or using draught-excluding strips that are available in most hardware stores. These can be effective, although they will need to be replaced from time to time as the foam expands and gets worn away with time.
A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a sponge-like seal that you can cut to size and put into the gaps between your sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the top and bottom. This is costly and you will need to apply it again over the course of the life of your window. However, it's an effective long-term fix and simple to remove.
Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply roll it up and then insert it into the gaps around your window. This is a great draught-stopper, but it can also hinder the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash needs to be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm must be to be applied every time the sash is closed.
As part of a comprehensive refurbishment it is possible to have your sash window professionally draught-proofed. This can include the installation of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights and the oiling and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This can aid in restoring the sash's function and improve its energy efficiency, while also addressing any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than taking out the windows and can help reduce draughts, improve the thermal performance, and drastically reduce costs.
Decay
The good news is that windows' sash frames aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are generally constructed of high-quality wood. With the right restoration they can be rehabilitated to give you the best performance for many more years. Regular inspections are essential and so is making sure the wood is adequately ventilated. This will prevent moisture build-up that can lead to wood decay.
The majority of issues that you'll face with sash windows are easily visible on a close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. In particular, wood decay is a very difficult problem to fix because fungus consumes the wood. Although it is possible to repair damaged timber but the best way to avoid future decay is to keep the wood dry.
The first thing to do is to strip any paint off the hardware. It is possible to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the meeting rail (this will depend on the location of the sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" which are pieces of wood in the side of the frame low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). It is possible to use a sharp knife to take them if they're painted or nailed into place. After the pockets have been removed, you can start cutting out any wood rot and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. Once the filler has dried the primer coat must be applied to stop further decay.
It is a good idea to examine inside the window the sashweights to make sure they are in balance. They shouldn't be displaced, or pulling one side more than the other. If they're not balanced, the sash can fall off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism can be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging to the opposite side of the window frame.
Poor Security
Over time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and prone to deterioration from weather and general wear. As time passes, this could result in wood decay that is then required to be replaced - a costly repair that needs to be addressed as quickly as is possible. window repairs near me marks on the window or on a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. A professional consultation is required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary repair work to the sash window.
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. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.
It can be very concerning when double and triple glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into the house. If window repair near me occurs the structural integrity of the window could be at risk and the sash window may require replacement.
A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to a snapped cord or problems with sash ratchets. If the issue is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.
This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. 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 enhance the operation of the sash and also reduce the risk of draughts.