10 Undeniable Reasons People Hate Sash Window Repair

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Sash windows can get out of balance and crack. Pam is on the lookout for salvaged, wavy glass and keeps an eye out for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then searches for replacements, such as nuts or washers, to ensure that her window is balanced.

Pam covers each pan with a rope of glazing compound that she puts into the rabbet groove, or pocket, that is around the opening. This helps cut drafts and reduce the cost of heat loss.

Sashes that stick Sashes

If your double-hung window becomes stuck in the middle, it's a nightmare. They'll shake during a storm and you'll lose view. On the other the other hand, windows that are too loose will allow external noise and air in and your energy costs could increase. Both of these scenarios aren't optimal, but they can be fixed with the proper tools and perseverance.

One of the most common issues with weighted sash windows is that paint can get sucked into the channels they slide on, making them jam. Fortunately, the majority of issues with this can be solved through cleaning and lubricating the tracks.

Remove the caulking that was used in the space between the window stop (the one on the inside) and the frame of the window. Scrape away any accumulated paint. Make sure you employ a sharp blade and then set up sheets of plastic and a vacuum cleaner right below to contain any paint dust and chips.

You can then clean the tracks using a dry cloth, and then apply a silicone-based lubricant to help them slide better. You can find this in the majority of home improvement stores or online. Then, move the sash upwards or down to test it.

If it still jams it could be due to a problem with the sash cord. Verify if the cord is caught or hanging in the sash or snapped. It is necessary to re-cord the window If this is the case.

Another possible reason for the jam could be the pin that holds the meeting rail in place has slipped out. This can be tricky to repair, and you'll have to consult 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 softener on it. This is a quick drying liquid that can help to restore damaged wood, which means you'll be able to fix your window without having to take it off completely. Once you've used it, you'll be able remove the two sashes by placing a piece of wood on top of the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with a hammer.

Draughts

Draughts are a major problem for windows with sash windows that are old particularly during winter months. They are often caused by decayed wood, cracked putty or worn cords for sash. This causes cold air to seep around the window, making it 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 that are available in most hardware stores. They're effective, but they will need to replace them periodically as the foam expands over time with usage.

A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal which is a rubbery spongy seal that can be cut to size and put into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be applied by itself or with adhesive strips placed on the bottom and top of the frame. This option is fairly expensive and will have to be applied over the duration of your window's life, but it can provide an option for the long term and is easy to take off in the event that you want to open the window.

Cling film can also be used to stop drafts. Simply roll it up and then push it into all the gaps around your window. This is a great way to stop draughts however it could also hinder the sash's movement and cause a fire. The sash has to be removed in order to reopen the window, and the clingfilm will need reapplied every time the sash is closed.

An alternative that is less expensive is to have your window sash professionally draughtproofed as part of a general refurbishment service. This could include new sash cords as well as parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of the pulley wheels, and rebalancing the weights, and staining or painting the frames and sashes. This can help to restore the function of the sash, and increase its energy efficiency, as well as addressing any minor timber defects. It's less disruptive than removing windows and can help reduce draughts, increase the thermal efficiency and dramatically reduce the cost.

Decay

If your windows are sash and have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they are not necessarily beyond repair. The wood used in the frames of these windows is typically of a very high quality and, with the right restoration, can be revived to provide a high level of performance for a long time. The key is regularly checking the frames and ensuring that the timber is properly ventilated to avoid moisture build up which can lead to wood to rot.

The majority of issues you'll encounter with sash windows will be evident upon close examination, however some are more difficult to detect. In particular, wood decay is a difficult problem to treat because fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to repair rotten sections of timber, however, the best method to prevent future decay is to ensure the timber is kept dry.

First, take off 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 position of the sash). You'll then have to remove the "pocket covers" that are pieces of wood that are located on the sides 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 remove them if they are attached by nails or paint. After the pockets have been removed, you can begin to chisel out any wood rot and then apply a high-quality water-resistant wood filler. After the filler has dried, the primer must be applied to protect against further decay.

It is a good idea to check the sash weights within the window as well to ensure that they are in balance and not pulling one side more than the other. The sash can be thrown off its track if it is not 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 can be fitted to stop the sashes from bouncing to the opposite side of the window frame.

Poor Security

Sash windows are prone to wear and damage from the weather over time. Over time, this can lead to timber decay which in turn will need to be replaced - an expensive repair that has to be addressed as quickly as is possible. The signs of decaying wood can be seen by water marks beneath the window, or the frame turning soft to touch. A professional consultation is required to determine the condition and recommend any required repair work to the sash window.

In the same way, over time, the bottom rails can be damaged. This is evident by the presence of water marks on the sill or by the window becoming soft to touch. A professional will be required to examine the situation and recommend any needed resealing of sash windows components or replacement.

It can be a real concern when double and triple glazing windows begin to let noise pollution back into your home. If this happens the structural integrity of the windows could be at risk and it will likely need to be replaced with an alternative option.

A typical window repair issue for sash windows 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 issue is related to the sash ratchets, a little gentle persuasion is often the best solution.

Removal of the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of any dust or dirt can often aid in resolving this issue. After cleaning the tracks, remove any security fittings and repairing then remove the chains or sash cords. A draught seal can then be placed around the staff bead in order 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 sash box and the sash. This will improve the efficiency of the sash and reduce the risk of draughts.