14 Misconceptions Commonly Held About Sash Window Repair Sash Window Repair

Sash windows may become out of balance or even break. Pam searches the web for wavy glasses that are salvaged and keeps an eye out for discarded metal sashweights. She then seeks replacements in the form of washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove or pocket, that is around the opening. This reduces drafts and expensive heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung windows get stuck and shatters, it's a nightmare. They'll rattle in the event of storms, and you'll lose your view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external air and noise through, and your energy bills could increase. Neither scenario is ideal, but both could be solved with the proper tools and perseverance.

Paint can build up on the channels of old weighted sash window tracks, which can cause them to jam. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the old caulking that was between the window stop (the interior one) and the window frame. Then scrape off any paint that's built up. Make sure you make use of a sharp blade and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to catch any paint dust and chips.


Then, wipe the tracks with a dry, clean cloth and apply a silicone lubricant for better gliding. This lubricant is available at many home improvement stores or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it continues to jam it could be an issue with the sash cord. Examine whether the cord is tangled or hanging in the sash or snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window in the event of this.

Another possible cause of an obstruction is that a pin that holds the meeting rail in place has fallen out. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to call a professional in most cases.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten warped or swollen it's recommended to use a wood softener on it. This liquid dries quickly and can repair damaged wood. You won't have remove your sash windows in order to repair them. After using it, you should 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 with a tool.

Draughts

Draughts are a significant issue for old sash windows, especially in the winter months. They are often caused by decayed wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This causes cold air to seep around the window, making it difficult to warm your home. There are a few ways to prevent draughts from entering your windows that are sash, like filling any gaps with expanding foam or strips to block draughts that you can purchase from most hardware stores. These are effective, but they'll have to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and gets worn away with time.

A more permanent option is Gapseal which is a sponge-like seal that you cut to the desired size and then insert 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'll have to apply it again throughout the life of your window. However, it's a long-term fix and is simple to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film that is scrunched up and put into every gap around your window. This is a good draught-stopper however, it could also hinder the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. The sash must be removed to open the window, and the clingfilm needs to be reapplied every time the sash is closed.

As part of a general overhaul, you can have your window draught-proofed. This could include the installation of new sash strings staff beads and parting beads as well as the lubrication and rebalancing of the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also involve staining or painting the frames and 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 less disruptive than removing the windows and will reduce drafts, enhance the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

The good thing is that your frames for sash windows aren't beyond repair if they have been damaged or degraded. The frames of these windows are typically constructed of high-quality wood. With the proper restoration they can be rehabilitated to give you the best performance for many years to come. The key is to conduct regular inspections and making sure that the wood is well ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation which can cause wood decay.

Most of the problems you will encounter with sash windows are evident upon close inspection, but some are harder to spot. Wood decay is particularly difficult to repair, since the fungus consumes the wood. While it is possible repair damaged timber, the best way to avoid further rot is by keeping the wood dry.

The first thing to do is to strip any paint from the hardware. It could be necessary to remove the bottom rail from the frame, and also the rail that joins it (this will depend on the location of the sash). You'll then have to take off the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood on the side of the frame that are low down that provide access to the weights (the parting beads run down the middle of them). These can sometimes be put in place by nails and then covered with paint, so you will likely require a knife to get them off. Once window repairs are removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply an extremely high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the wood filler has dried it is recommended that a primer coat be applied to prevent further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash's weights inside the window too to make sure they are properly balanced and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. If they aren't balanced, the sash could drop off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted that will stop the sashes from swinging to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows become exposed to the elements and prone to damage from weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of the timber, which will require replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is essential to speak with an expert to evaluate the situation, and determine if any repairs to the window sash are needed.

Additionally, with time, the rails on the bottom can become damaged. Sills that have water marks or a window which is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional will be needed to assess the situation, and recommend any replacement of the sash window's seal or replacement.

It is a major concern when triple or double glazed windows start to let noise pollution back into your home. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash window may need to be replaced.

A typical problem with repairing sash windows is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. This could be due to an sash cord that has snapped, or it could be the result of an issue with the sash or ratchets. If the latter is the case the gentle persuasion can usually help the window open and then the ratchets need to be reset.

The sash should be removed from the frame and removing the tracks of any dirt or dust can aid in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, take off any security fittings and then remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead may be sealed with a draught-proof seal to reduce the risk of draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. Decorators caulk can be used to fill the gap between the sash's sash box and the sash. This will improve the sash's operation and reduce the possibility of draughts.