Why We Love Sash Window Repair And You Should Too

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance, or even break. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and keep an eye out for discarded, metal sash weights. She then hunts for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound that she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, that is around the opening. This prevents drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

When your double-hung window gets stuck, it's a nightmare. You'll lose your view if they rattle in a storm. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will let external air and noise in, and your energy bills could increase. Both scenarios are not optimal however they can be rectified with the proper tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with windows that are weighted is that paint may get sucked into the channels they slide over, causing them jam. Most of these problems can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

Start by removing the caulking that was between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape off any accumulated paint. Make use of a sharp knife and put sheets of plastic and an air-collecting vacuum cleaner beneath the surface to collect any paint dust or chips.

Then, clean the tracks with a dry cloth and apply a silicone lubricant to ensure better sliding. This lubricant is available at most home improvement shops or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it is still jamming, there could be a problem with the sash cord. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is caught or hanging from the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll need to reconnect the window.

A pin that keeps the rail in place could have lost its grip. It can be difficult to repair, and you'll have to consult an expert in the majority of instances.

If a pin isn't falling out, but the wood has gotten swollen or warped, it's a good idea use a wood hardener on it. It's a fast drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able repair your sash window without having to take it off completely. After you've used it, you can pry apart the two sashes by placing a piece wood on the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can be a concern with sash windows that are old, especially during the winter. They are often caused by decaying wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to enter the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam, or by utilizing draught-proofing strips that are found in many hardware stores. They are efficient however you'll require replacement periodically as the foam expands over time with use.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a rubbery spongy seal that you can cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will have to be reapplied over the duration of your window's lifetime but it does offer a long-term solution and is easy to take off if you want to open the window.

Another popular DIY draught proofing solution is to use cling film that is scrunched up and projectbrightbook.com pushed into all the gaps around your window. This is a great draught stopper but the downside is that it can hinder sash movement completely and lnx.tiropratico.com may be an hazard to fire. The sash needs to be removed to reopen the window repairs, and the clingfilm will need to be reapplied each time the sash is closed.

A better option is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a comprehensive refurbishment service. This could include the installation of new sash strings parting beads and staff beads, the lubrication and rebalancing the weights, as well as the fluidization and rebalancing of the pulley wheel. It may also include painting or staining of the frames and sashes. This can restore the sash to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and correct any minor imperfections in the wood. It is less disruptive than taking out the windows and can help reduce draughts, increase the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce costs.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are typically made of high-quality timber. 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 properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up which can cause wood decay.

Most of the problems you will face with sash windows are easily visible on a close inspection, but certain issues are more difficult to identify. Particularly, decay of wood is a difficult problem to treat because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix wood that is rotten, but the best way to avoid further rot is to make sure the wood is kept dry.

The first thing to do is to strip any paint off the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might need to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers" are tiny pieces of wood placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights should be removed. It is possible to use a sharp knife to take them if they're fixed or painted. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin cutting out any wood rot and apply an extremely high-quality, water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, it is recommended that a coat of primer be applied to prevent further decay.

It is a smart idea to inspect inside the window the sashweights to ensure they are in balance. They should not be displaced or pulled one side more than the other. If they are not balanced the sash can slide off its track and could cause damage to the frame. The sash weights could be replaced with new ones or a new mechanism for balancing can be installed, which will stop the sashes from bouncing to the wrong side of the frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to damage and wear from weather and wear over time. This can lead to decay of timber, which requires replacement. Wood decay can be detected by water marks under the window or the frame turning soft to the touch. A professional consultation is required to determine the condition and recommend any required sash window repair work.

Similarly, over time the bottom rails can be damaged. This can be spotted by the presence of water marks on the sill or the window becoming soft to the touch. A professional is required to examine the situation and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.

Double and triple-glazed Sash windows do an incredible job of keeping noise pollution out of your home, but it can be a real cause for worry when they begin to let it in. If this occurs the structural integrity could be at stake and the sash windows will need to be replaced.

A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. It could be due to an sash cord that has snapped or it could be an indication of a problem with the sash or ratchets. If the latter is the case, then a bit of gentle pressure can help the window open and then the ratchets must be reset.

This problem can be resolved by taking the sash off and cleaning the tracks. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings, and then remove the chains or cords that hold the sash. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal that will reduce the risk of draughts. This will also improve the finish of the paint. The gap between the box and sash could be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.