9 Signs That You're A Sash Window Repair Expert

Sash Window Repair

Sash windows can be out of balance and crack. Pam scours the web for salvaged, wavy glass and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then looks for replacements, like washers or nuts to help balance her window.

Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she uses to create the rabbet groove, or pocket, around the opening. This prevents drafts and prevent costly heat loss.

Sticking Sashes

It's a nightmare if your double glazed window repair-hung windows are stuck. They'll shake in the event of an icy storm and you'll lose your view. A window that is too loose may allow in air and noise, which will increase your energy costs. Both of these scenarios are not ideal, but they can be rectified by using the right tools and persistence.

A common problem with old weighted sash windows is that paint could get sucked into the channels that they slide over, causing them blockage. The majority of these issues can be resolved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.

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

Clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone lubricant for more smooth glide. You can purchase this at most home improvement stores, or online. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.

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. If this is the situation, you'll need to reconnect the window.

Another possible reason for the jam could be the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped away. This isn't easy to repair, and you'll have to call a professional in most cases.

Use a wood hardener when the wood is swelling and swollen, but there's no pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can aid in restoring damaged wood, which means you'll be able to repair your window without having to remove it completely. After you've used it, you can pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood in the lower corner of the window where they meet.

Draughts

Draughts can cause problems with old sash window, especially during the winter. They are usually caused by rotten wood, broken putty or worn sash cords. This can allow cold air to get inside the window, making it more difficult to warm your home. You can stop drafts by filling the gaps with expanding foam, or by using draught-proof strips that are available at most hardware shops. These are effective however you'll require replacement periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, a spongy rubbbery seal that you can cut to size and insert into the gaps between the sash window frame. It can be used on its own or with adhesive strips on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is costly and you will need to apply it again throughout the life of your window. However, it's an effective long-term fix and easy to remove.

Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling film that is scrunched up and put into every gap around your local window repair. This is a great way to stop draughts however, it could also block the sash's movement and even cause a fire. Additionally the sash will have to be removed to open the window again and the cling film needs to be reapplied each time you close the sash.

A more cost-effective solution is to have your windows draught-proofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords, staff beads, parting beads, lubrication of pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This can bring the sash back to its original purpose and increase its energy efficiency, and repair any minor flaws in the wood. It is less disruptive than removing the windows and can help reduce draughts, increase thermal performance and significantly reduce costs.

Decay

If your sash windows have suffered from damage or decay the good news is they aren't necessarily unfixable. The wood used in the frames of these windows is generally of high-quality and, Sash window Repair with the right restoration, can be restored to provide the best performance for many years. The key is to conduct regular inspections and ensuring that the timber is well ventilated to prevent moisture accumulation which can cause wood decay.

The majority of issues that you'll encounter with sash windows are easily visible on a close examination, however certain issues are more difficult to identify. Wood decay is particularly difficult to treat, since fungus can eat the wood. It is possible to repair wood that is rotten, but the best way to stop further decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.

The first step is to remove any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the meeting rail might have to be removed from the frame (depending on the position of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood that are placed on the frame's side, which allow access to the weights, will need to be removed. These are often nailed in place and stuck with paint, so you'll likely require a knife to cut them off. Once the pockets are removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply a high-quality water-resistant filler. Once the filler is dry, the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.

It is an excellent idea to examine the sash weights inside the window, too, to ensure that they are in balance and not misaligned or pulling one side more than the other. The sash may be thrown off its track if they are not balanced. This could cause the frame to crack or become damaged. You can replace the sashweights using new ones, or put in an updated balancing system to stop the sash from moving the wrong way.

Poor Security

As time passes sash windows are exposed to the elements and susceptible to deterioration due to weather and general wear. This can lead to decay of timber, and requires replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame could indicate decay of the wood. It is important to consult an expert to assess the situation and determine if repairs to the sash window are required.

In time the rails on the bottom may also be damaged. The sill may show water marks or a window that is soft to the touch could be a sign of this. A professional consultation may be required to evaluate the situation and recommend any necessary replacement or resealing of sash window components.

Triple and double glazed Sash windows do an incredible job at keeping noise pollution from entering your home, but it can be a major cause of worry when they begin to let it back in. If this happens, the structural integrity of sash windows may be in danger and is likely to need to be replaced with a different option.

A common sash repair problem is when the sash becomes stuck in the frame. This could be caused by a snapped cord or a problem with sash rattles. If the latter is the case the gentle persuasion can usually help the window to be opened to reopen. Alternatively, the ratchets will need to be reset.

The sash should be removed from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dirt or dust will often aid in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and then remove the chains or sash cords. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal to reduce the possibility of draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and the sash can be filled with decorators caulk to improve sash operation and reduce draughts.